More than 70 Military Wives Choirs, located at British forces’ bases both in the UK and overseas, are planning to unite with military bands from all three services to record a new album commemorating the end of the First World War Centenary in 2018.
Classical, pop and film music composers have been working with choir members to write songs embracing themes of remembrance, commemoration, patriotism and military life.
As well as four new commissions, the Centenary album will also draw on music from past and present, including marching songs from the Great War, regimental and service marches and contemplative remembrance pieces.
A pledge campaign for pre-orders has been launched to guarantee recording can go ahead.
With their experience of bringing together women in the British military community, the Military Wives Choirs aim to sound a very personal note for the close of the WW1 Centenary commemorations.
It is a tribute not only to the heroism of the troops at the Front in 1914-18, but also to the contribution of women who raised families, nursed and worked tirelessly despite the loss of husbands, sons, fathers, brothers and friends.
“Most of us understand how difficult it is to say goodbye to someone in the Forces, whether the person is going to a war zone or not,” says Anita, a Colchester Military Wives Choir member.
“It is this unique perspective which means that we can do something very powerful with music, which is a medium that speaks far louder than words.”
The album cannot be recorded unless enough pre-orders are received. The final deadline is 19 December 2017. See Pledgemusic for a video and more details.
The Military Wives Choirs is a volunteer-led charity. It was founded after the first choirs hit the Christmas Number 1 in the UK singles charts with ‘Wherever You Are’ in 2011, directed by choirmaster and broadcaster Gareth Malone.
Source: Military Wives Choirs
Posted by: CN Editorial Team