Group fun

Why sing in a group? There are many reasons, but one of them is that it can be a lot of fun. Here are a few of my favourite examples.

The unexpected Hallelujah chorus

This is a great idea for a low-ceremony concert, avoiding many of the organisational costs and worries. And there is a captive audience too.

Two versions of “Don’t Stop Believing”

“Glee” is an American TV series about a high-school Glee club or singing society. Glee clubs originated in English schools, but died out in the 1850s to be replaced by choral societies. However, the tradition remains strong in schools and universities in the United States.

This is their version of Journey’s song, “Don’t Stop Believing”, one of iTunes most downloaded songs. I love this song, mostly for the contrast between the despair and low-life grottiness portrayed by the words and the exuberant joy of the music, as if the singers are saying, “Another grubby night-club – oh what fun!!”.

Here is a second, more a capella version. It took me a moment to realise that this is only one person, filmed five times.

Straight No Chaser – the Indiana University Glee Club

There are many famous Glee clubs in US universities, such as at Harvard, Princeton and Yale (the Whiffenpoofs!!).  Straight No Chaser are the Indiana University glee club, and the same name is used for ex-members who sing professionally. Here are a couple of their songs “celebrating” Christmas, showing their trademark wit.

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