Fascinating Rhythm is getting back to rehearsals.
Fascinating Rhythm members are excited to be getting back to in-person rehearsals after more than a year of meeting online, thanks to Yate Town Football Club offering its stand as an outdoor venue.
According to the latest UK Government guidance, amateur singing groups can meet outdoors in groups of up to 30, as long as they adhere to social distancing and hygiene rules. In line with this, Fascinating Rhythm’s membership will split into two groups that will meet separately in Yate on a Thursday evening.
Fascinating Rhythm’s Chair, Iris, says, “We were following the timetable for lockdown easing and working with our usual venue on a risk assessment to ensure a safe return to indoor rehearsals. However, an unexpected change to the coronavirus guidance last month put those plans on hold. Thankfully, Yate Town FC stepped in and offered us the use of the covered stand until we can re-group as a single choir indoors.”
The past year has been challenging for singers, with choirs unable to meet in person due to the coronavirus pandemic. Since the first lockdown in March 2020, Fascinating Rhythm has adapted to weekly Zoom meetings and staying connected through social media.
“Over the past year, we’ve struggled to sing together online because four-part a capella harmony just doesn’t work on Zoom!” says Fascinating Rhythm’s Musical Director Jo Thorn. “But we’ve embraced the opportunity to work on other elements of our craft, learn some new songs and make a couple of lockdown videos. Most importantly, we’ve stayed socially connected in what has been an incredibly isolating time for the whole country.”
Fascinating Rhythm’s Social Media Manager, Erica, captured the chorus reunion on camera. “It’s quite emotional for us, coming back together and singing one of our favourite songs. I can’t wait until we can all meet properly as a full choir and get back to making that unique Fascinating Rhythm sound,” she says.
Jo agrees, “Whilst we don’t know how soon we will be able to return to indoor rehearsals at The Greenfield Centre, we’re glad to have the chance to get back to singing together and are grateful to Yate Town FC for their support and hospitality. Perhaps we can grace the stand with a four-part harmony football chant or two!”
