Manchester gospel choir hits winning note

18 Jul 2013

A group of singers from The University of Manchester has been named the UK’s best University Gospel Choir, for the second year running.

The 35 students from the Harmony Gospel Choir battled it out against eight other groups at the finals of the competition on 6 July, in London’s historic Golders Green Hippodrome.

The competition for University Gospel Choir of the Year attracted entrants from over 50 universities showcasing the talents of singers from across the UK. The show’s judges praised the Manchester singers’ musical precision, harmonic ability and sense of fun.

Since last year’s win, the choir has taken part in many events, providing backing vocals for Jahmene Douglas at the X Factor Final at Manchester Central, performing in London’s Royal Festival Hall with The London Community Gospel Choir, and a sell-out Christmas concert at the University’s Academy 1 venue.

But their busy schedule has not prevented them from taking part in community events such as the NUS Zones conference, the Student Action for Refugee sleep out and supporting the Manchester University Jazz Orchestra performing at the Antwerp Mansion renovation project.

Frances Booth, a third-year Material Science student and Co-Chair of the choir says: “Being in the choir has kept me on track throughout my time at University. Since taking on the role of choir Co-Chair last year, I can only hope that I have given a fraction of what it has given me back.”

Verity McKay, a third-year Law student and fellow Co-Chair of the choir says: “I have had such a wonderful two-and-a-half years singing with the gospel choir, even when things became hectic, the people in the choir and the events we’ve taken part in have provided a healthy distraction.”

Choir member Becky Jones, a second-year Biomedical Science student says: “It’s really been such an incredible year, being part of the gospel family has made University life so much more amazing.”

The choir are looking forward to returning to University back in September to start their weekly Wednesday afternoon rehearsals and to see what the 2013/2014 academic year may bring.