On a crisp autumn evening, the historic city of Newport buzzed with excitement as the streets filled with eager participants making their way to the grand hall of the Newport Civic Centre. The occasion was a unique and heartwarming one—an open choir event designed to introduce new and inexperienced singers to the Newport Philharmonic Choir. Sponsored by Ideal Glass, the renowned local company specializing in windows and doors, the event promised to be an unforgettable evening of music, community spirit, and new beginnings.
A Vision of Community and Music
The Newport Philharmonic Choir, a well-respected fixture in the local arts scene, has long been celebrated for its exceptional performances of classical and contemporary choral music. However, the choir’s leadership had been contemplating new ways to engage with the wider community, especially those who might not have considered themselves “singers.” This led to the conception of the choir event—a welcoming, no-pressure opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the joy of singing in a large ensemble.
“Music has always been about bringing people together,” explained Sarah Morgan, the musical director of the Newport Philharmonic Choir. “We wanted to open our doors to anyone who loves music, regardless of their level of experience. This event is about showing that singing is something everyone can enjoy, and you don’t need to be a professional to be part of something beautiful.”
The Role of Ideal Glass: More Than Just Windows and Doors
The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Ideal Glass, a company deeply rooted in Newport’s community. Known for their high-quality windows and doors, Ideal Glass has built a reputation not only for their craftsmanship but also for their commitment to local initiatives and events. Their sponsorship of the choir event was a natural extension of their dedication to enhancing the community.
“We’ve always believed that our business is about more than just selling products—it’s about being a part of Newport’s fabric,” said John Matthews, CEO of Ideal Glass. “When the opportunity came to sponsor this event, we saw it as a perfect way to give back to a community that has supported us for so many years. Music, like a well-crafted window or door, brings people together and opens up new possibilities.”
Ideal Glass’s involvement went beyond financial support. The company also helped to promote the event, encouraging their customers and staff to participate. Flyers were included in every order, and the company’s social media channels buzzed with excitement in the lead-up to the event. The company even provided refreshments for the participants, making the evening feel as welcoming and inclusive as possible.
The Big Night: A Melody of Voices
As the doors to the Civic Centre opened, participants were greeted with warm smiles and the sound of soft piano music playing in the background. Many were first-timers, drawn by curiosity or a long-held desire to sing in a choir but uncertain about where to start. Others were seasoned singers who had come to support friends or simply to enjoy the evening.
The event kicked off with a brief introduction by Sarah Morgan, who assured everyone that this was a relaxed and fun evening with no pressure to perform perfectly. “Tonight is about enjoying music together,” she said, her enthusiasm contagious. “Whether you’ve sung all your life or have never sung outside of your shower, you’re in the right place.”
To break the ice, the evening began with some light vocal warm-ups led by Sarah. Laughter filled the room as participants shook off their nerves and began to find their voices. The first song of the night was a simple round, “Frère Jacques,” which allowed everyone to sing in harmony without worrying too much about technicalities. The effect was immediate—within minutes, the hall was filled with the rich sound of voices blending together, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose.
As the evening progressed, the choir tackled a variety of pieces, ranging from folk songs to excerpts from classical works. One of the highlights was a spirited rendition of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” where even the most hesitant participants couldn’t resist joining in with gusto. Sarah moved among the singers, offering encouragement and guidance, ensuring that everyone felt included and valued.
Building Confidence and Connections
One of the key aims of the event was to build confidence in those who might have felt too intimidated to join a choir. The informal setting, combined with Sarah’s supportive approach, helped many overcome their initial fears. For some, it was the first time they had sung in front of others, and the sense of accomplishment was palpable.
“I’ve always loved singing, but I never thought I was good enough to join a choir,” said Jane Richards, a participant who attended with her daughter. “Tonight, I realized that it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. I had so much fun, and I can’t wait to come back.”
The event also served as a fantastic opportunity for the Newport Philharmonic Choir to connect with potential new members. By the end of the evening, several participants had expressed interest in joining the choir on a more permanent basis, excited by the prospect of continuing their musical journey in a supportive and welcoming environment.
A Lasting Impact
As the event drew to a close, the room was filled with a sense of accomplishment and joy. The final song, a moving rendition of “The Rhythm of Life,” brought the evening to a powerful and uplifting conclusion. Applause echoed through the hall as participants and organizers alike celebrated the success of the night.
For Ideal Glass, the event was a resounding success, reinforcing their commitment to supporting the Newport community in meaningful ways. For the Newport Philharmonic Choir, it was an opportunity to share their love of music and to open their doors to new voices. But most importantly, for the participants, it was a night of discovery—of hidden talents, of newfound confidence, and of the simple yet profound joy of making music together.
As the participants filed out of the hall, many lingered, chatting excitedly about the evening and exchanging contact details. There was a sense that something special had happened—new friendships had been formed, and a new chapter had begun for the Newport Philharmonic Choir.
