Vibrant Voices: Harmony and a bit of Chaos, but all for a good cause
| Type of post: | Whats New |
| Sub-type: | Concert |
| Posted By: | Andrew Harte |
| Status: | Current |
| Date Posted: | Mon, 21 Sep 2026 |
Reading Phoenix Choir had a blast kicking off our 58th season on Saturday 19 September, with a relaxed family-friendly concert at St Laurence's in Reading. Singing a range of music from a 16th-century madrigals to Teddy Bear's Picnic to 2019's Into the Unknown from Frozen 2, there was (hopefully) something for everyone.
One aim of the concert was to make it as easy as possible for families to participate: beanbags at the front for kids to sit on (and slide on, in a few cases), refreshments before and after the concert, some singing along, and just hour of music to ensure little people didn't get bored. The beanbags were a hit, even if it meant our Music Director Chris had to step carefully to avoid them whilst conducting!
"My parents and son absolutely loved it," commented one guest, "It's a really special thing for children who can't easily sit still to experience live music in a lovely relaxed environment."
"It's different to our more formal concerts during the season, but in a good way," commented a choir member, "Everyone is colourful, the atmosphere is slightly chaotic, and both choir and audience leave energised."
We're delighted that the event raised about £300 for local charity First Days, who help families and children in two ways - by giving children essential items they need to be safe at home and confident at school, and working with parents to help them change their lives for good.
Thank you to everyone who came to the concert, and who gave generously to support First Days!
One aim of the concert was to make it as easy as possible for families to participate: beanbags at the front for kids to sit on (and slide on, in a few cases), refreshments before and after the concert, some singing along, and just hour of music to ensure little people didn't get bored. The beanbags were a hit, even if it meant our Music Director Chris had to step carefully to avoid them whilst conducting!
"My parents and son absolutely loved it," commented one guest, "It's a really special thing for children who can't easily sit still to experience live music in a lovely relaxed environment."
"It's different to our more formal concerts during the season, but in a good way," commented a choir member, "Everyone is colourful, the atmosphere is slightly chaotic, and both choir and audience leave energised."
We're delighted that the event raised about £300 for local charity First Days, who help families and children in two ways - by giving children essential items they need to be safe at home and confident at school, and working with parents to help them change their lives for good.
Thank you to everyone who came to the concert, and who gave generously to support First Days!
