Anne Parisianne
Williamstown is set to welcome acclaimed vocalist, choral composer and songwriter Moira Smiley brings her melodic expertise to Melbourne’s west this July.
The local Williamstown women’s choir, Willin Wimmin, will host a workshop with Ms Smiley on Wednesday, July 10, at The Bridge Church Hall.
Known for their rendition of Ms Smiley’s compositions, the choir is keen for the unique opportunity to collaborate directly with the composer.
Community Music Victoria, the event’s presenter, has ensured that Ms Smiley’s, who is from America, workshops cater to a broad audience, inviting participants of all genders, vocal ranges, ages and experience levels.
Ms Smiley will cover vocal exercises and teach some of her well-known choir arrangements with her compositions celebrated world wide.
Her diverse portfolio extends to film soundtracks, television programs and more than 70 commercial albums.
Willin Wimmin musical director Steph Payne said they were excited for the workshop.
“Moira’s music has meant so much to me, and she has had a huge influence on my work,” she said.
“Her songs express what’s going on in the world broadly, but they also ask us to look at what we can do locally to help each other. I have her many albums on high rotation.
“Willin Wimmin and Moira’s world views on social justice align beautifully and the choir arrangements are challenging and a joy to sing.”
Following the Williamstown workshop, Ms Smiley will lead two more sessions in Brunswick on July 11 and 12.
The tour will culminate in a Winter Harmony Concert, supported by Songrise Trio, a folk trio and Newport’s own Paisley and Plaid.
Details: cmvic.org.au/whats-on/events/singing-workshops-with-moira-smiley-usa.
