Greater Victoria’s City of Gardens Chorus earned gold medals at international Sweet Adelines chorus competition in Baltimore, Maryland, in November 2014. Judges awarded the Chorus first place in the Harmony Classic Division AA category for mid-sized choruses, which was limited to the top five choruses world-wide. The Chorus’ 48 female singers performed a colourful Mardi Gras entertainment package. Master Director Julie Smith and Assistant Director Diane Butler directed the Chorus.

Their two competition songs were an uptune medley of "Dancing in the Streets of New Orleans/Mardi Gras March" and ballad "He Was There". Completing the package was "Blues in the Night" and a medley of "IKO IKO/When the Saints Go Marching In". IKO/Saints was enhanced by visually stunning choreography, flamboyant umbrellas, and purple, green and gold flags. Colourful Mardi Gras eye makeup enhanced the flashy black hologram costumes.

City of Gardens Chorus has been entertaining and competing since chartering with Sweet Adelines International in 1967. The Chorus’ performances showcase their a cappella four-part harmonies, ringing chords, stunning choreography and dazzling costumes. Invitations to strut their award-winning talents are always welcome. They sing at local events and festivals and have donated many performances to benefit charitable organizations. They have performed for a Governor General, three Lieutenant Governors, and at events honouring the Canadian Naval Centennial. In 2010 the Chorus toured England and Wales, earned third place at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, and are now Sweet Adelines International 2014 Division AA Champions.

Tuesday evening rehearsals take place at Gordon United Church hall, 935 Goldstream Avenue (near Jacklin Avenue) in Langford.
For rehearsal inquiries, contact Donna at [email protected]. For performance inquiries: Nancy at [email protected].