Choir in fine voice for Highland Hospice
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A choir is hoping to boost funds for Highland Hospice – as well as people’s spirits – with a newly-released music video.
Highland Voices Gospel Choir has recorded its version of Walking On Sunshine to highlight the charity’s Wear Yellow Day today which aims to raise vital funds.
Due to coronavirus-related lockdown regulations, choir members were filmed and recorded remotely with the video being put together by Ben Hesling and Mark Clement.
Tony Henry, musical director of the 30-strong choir, hopes the upbeat song will encourage people to make a donation.
"It is something which needs to be supported," he said.
He also hopes it will put a smile on people’s faces.
Mr Henry said making the video – which can be found on the hospice's social media pages – during lockdown had presented challenges.
"It is a lot tougher to do than usual," he said.
"In putting the video together, we have had a lot of co-operation from wonderful people but it is by no means easy.
"But it is in a good cause and everyone went the extra mile to help out."
Mr Henry, whose voice has taken him all over the world, has performed for people such as the Queen, David and Victoria Beckham and actress Charlize Theron.
He formed Highland Voices in November 2016 to give amateur singers a chance to come together to improve their vocal skills while spreading the joy of singing through performing .
The choir has performed at venues such as the Ironworks, Eden Court and Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival.
Mr Henry said communal singing groups provided many benefits.
"For some people, it is the highlight of the week to get together with others and have a sing," he said.
"Lockdown has had an enormous impact.
"It has been very tough. There has been a lot of isolation which has resulted in some levels of depression for some people."
With restrictions now easing, the choir has been able to start rehearsing outside in the hope of returning to performing.
But Mr Henry believed it would be the end of this year and into next year before public performances started to make a proper comeback.
"Because of the restrictions, it is going to be a struggle for the choir to perform to full capacity," he added.
Related story: Watch: Choir releases video in support of Highland Hospice
