Sharon Marnell found herself in a public jacuzzi, seeking relief for her frozen shoulders, when she broke into song. A fellow visitor complimented her singing, inviting her to join a choir tailored for those who lack musical prowess. Intrigued by the concept, Marnell, with her musical and teaching background, established multiple tuneless choirs in England, growing from a small group to 110 performers at a music festival.
After relocating to Canada in 2024, Marnell is now introducing two tuneless choirs on Vancouver Island. The first tuneless choir originated in West Bridgford, England, spearheaded by Nadine Cooper, who was passionate about singing but lacked formal training. This initiative, guided by Bernie Bracha, aimed to provide a space where imperfect singing was embraced and enjoyed collectively.
The tuneless choir movement has expanded, with over 30 groups operating in England and plans for a 10-year celebration in 2026. Marnell highlighted the transformative power of singing within these choirs, emphasizing the joy, camaraderie, and confidence it fosters, irrespective of musical abilities. The essence of tuneless choirs lies in choosing familiar songs, encouraging members to sing with enthusiasm and without judgment.
Marnell’s choirs in Langford and Sidney welcome all music enthusiasts, irrespective of their singing abilities. These gatherings focus on fun, energy, and community, with no auditions or prior experience needed. The inaugural meetings for the Sidney and Langford choirs will take place in January at local church halls, promoting a spirit of inclusivity and musical enjoyment.
