The One Voices – Background information

The story behind The One Voices choir

The One Voices is a member of the Ubuntu Choirs Network (www.ubuntuchoirs.net). Ubuntu is Zulu for ‘I am because we are.’ Although each member choir has its own unique style, there is a common thread that binds us all together. After singing in the founding choir of the network (The Getting’ Higher Choir) and later training with its choir directors, Shivon Robinsong and Denis Donnelly, it is a joy to introduce this style of group singing to Powell River.

From the Ubuntu Choirs website:

“Ubuntu choirs seek to create a world in which we listen deeply to those around us, celebrate diversity, trust in our voices and bring them forward on behalf of harmony, justice and peace.

In an Ubuntu choir, a person who initially sings timidly or off key is welcomed. In close proximity to stronger voices, a novice voice naturally grows in strength and beauty. Shinichi Suzuki, who espoused a “mother tongue” approach to music education, observed: “A child learns to speak in an environment which exhibits full confidence in his/her potential to acquire language.” And so it is with singing! At all stages of their musical development, each singer is a cherished member of the whole. A new singer may struggle to “carry a tune” alone, but when other singers are helping to carry it, she can sing magnificently!”

The Philosophy

The One Voices:

• Is based on the belief that we can all sing
• Recognizes singing as a birthright,
• Is committed to building community through song and the joy of being together
• Is non-auditioned and celebrates the contribution of ALL voices – inexperienced or otherwise!
• Ensures a safe singing environment
• Works to enhance singing in our daily lives
• Focuses on songs about the human condition and stories from around the globe
• Operates largely in the oral tradition
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