Posted on: 10 October 2022
Have you seen the CNWL staff choir virtual performance of Over the Rainbow? This is the latest in the choir series of virtual performances, and the first one that has been professionally edited.
The song was suggested by Debbie Peter, who started the choir when the pandemic hit in 2020. The choir has always been virtual, meeting weekly on Zoom, and Debbie was keen from the start to create virtual performances alongside the rehearsals, to enhance a sense of community and shared intention.
The choir first learnt and recorded Over the Rainbow in Autumn 2020 when the choir was included in filming for a documentary about the pandemic. It was brilliant to be part of this, especially as very little was able to happen in person at that point, and our weekly choir Zooms were an important marker in the week. Being part of this documentary was a huge thrill and you could sense the buzz of excitement it brought to the group. 
All recordings were made by choir members individually at home – unable to see or hear themselves well, or any other choir members at all while they record, they sing along with a guide track, aiming to be as precise as possible while also making sure they stay in the right place for the camera, don't make extra sounds, look engaged and tell the story... there's a lot to remember!
Our new video includes recordings made in late 2020 as well as recordings taken this summer, all edited together with a creative design by Galina Rin at Terra City One. The video is a wonderful testament to current and previous choir members, plus staff members who joined us to provide instrumental accompaniment for this song – and their resilience, determination and ability to find enjoyment even during difficult days.
The CNWL virtual staff choir meets Wednesdays 7-8pm on Zoom – new participants are always welcome, no auditions and no experience required. Full details, including Zoom login more about how the choir runs and what to expect, and our previous performance videos are all available here.