A concert by Tauranga’s Inachord Singers will not only raise money for a school in the Solomon Islands, it will also showcase a new variety of songs they’ve been working on.

“Conversations with Mum” will be performed by the women’s choir at Bethlehem Community Church with guest artists Michael van Lieshout and Jackie McCaughan on Saturday, September 14.

“Some members have been with the chorus since 1995,” says Inachord Singers member Tory Oliver.

“We now have musical director Dan Ieremia, who challenges us with different music and new skills in terms of musicality and harmonies. Dan is injecting more fun and personality into our performance with the goal of being more engaging while aiming for quality sound production and musicianship.”

The 26-strong group performs in the community at retirement villages, rest homes and shopping malls. This concert, though, will raise money for medical supplies for children in the Solomon Islands.

“Proceeds will be used to send desperately needed medical supplies to the Florence Young Christian School in Honiara,” says Tory. The Solomon Islands is currently facing an ongoing shortage of medicines and other health supplies which the country’s Government is working to resolve.

“Currently they have none so we would focus on the highest need which is things like antiseptic, malaria medication, plasters, Panadol, feminine hygiene products and bandages.”

The theme of the concert is “Conversations with Mum”, which is expected to appeal to a wide audience. “A lot of the songs we’re singing, anyone could apply to their childhood,” says Tory.

“For example, Chasing Visions is about reminiscing and wishing you were with someone and Don’t Tell Mama is a fun, cheeky number that should get a few laughs.”

The Inachord Singers are also working towards including more of New Zealand’s official languages into their performances.

“Dan has encouraged us out of our comfort zone, so we have a song in te reo Māori and will eventually be incorporating more NZ Sign Language as well,” says Tory. “It’s not just singing; a few of our members will share stories and there will be short skits to give more variety.”

“Conversations with Mum” is at Bethlehem Community Church at 3pm on Saturday, September 14. Tickets via door sales; adults $15, children under 12 free. Eftpos available.

- SunLive