Headliners hit the high notes ahead of Hobart showdown
Ballina’s Headliners Chorus is heading into one of its busiest and most important periods, with a major national competition on the horizon.
The group has been fine-tuning its performance ahead of the Sweet Adelines Convention in Hobart this May, where it will compete over four days at Wrest Point.
As part of its preparation, the chorus recently undertook specialist coaching with US-based musical director Rob Mance.
He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Music in choral conducting and is known internationally for helping a cappella groups reach their full potential.
Publicity officer Judi Jeans said the experience had been a major boost.
“Our Director Cath Gordon is delighted with the result, and we hope it will help us achieve an improved mark in Hobart,” she said.
Strong community support
Despite the focus on competition, the Headliners have remained active across the Ballina community.
The group was invited by the Ballina Chamber of Commerce to perform at International Women’s Day celebrations.
“They had the entire audience up and singing a four-part a cappella song in no time,” Ms Jeans said.
“We loved seeing them all linking hands and joining with us.”
The performance finished with a rendition of I Am Woman to strong applause.
The chorus also performed at the Ballina RSL for Seniors Week, stepping in under the direction of Sue Nardi.
Ms Jeans said the packed auditorium responded enthusiastically.
Looking ahead to key events
The group will again perform at Anzac Day services, including the RSL Cenotaph and the main march.
Ms Jeans said it remained one of the chorus’s most meaningful commitments each year.
“We love singing for our gallant men and women who have served or are still serving,” she said.
Before heading to Hobart, the chorus will host an open night on May 4, inviting the public to preview its competition performance.
The evening will include audience participation, raffles and a chance for the community to support the group.
The Headliners will also perform at Mother’s Day celebrations at Lighthouse Day Care in the lead-up to the trip.
Ms Jeans said the group was proud to balance its competition ambitions with its strong local presence.
“Although most of our energy is being directed towards convention, we are still being seen out in the community doing what we love best of all,” she said.
