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The Assorted Biscuits community choir lives up to its name, bringing together an eclectic mix of singers who gather each week in Wellsford not just to sing, but to share tea and conversation.
The community choir meets at the Wellsford Community Centre on Wednesdays, from 2pm to 4.30pm, during school terms, and is led by Anna Pendred and Elsie-May Dowling.
Pendred said the name reflected both the personalities within the group and the connections that were formed around rehearsals.
“When we first started, one of the most important reasons for singing together was the social aspect,” she says.
“We always have a cup of tea and biscuits, and a chat after every session. That’s part of the kaupapa or the policy of our choir.”
The group welcomes singers of all abilities and doesn’t require auditions, with participants ranging from first-time singers to experienced choir members.
“We are all-inclusive and anyone can come and sing. Everyone’s welcome.”
Sessions follow a call-and-response style of teaching, with songs learned by listening rather than sheet music, and ,draw on world music traditions including African and European numbers as well as Māori waiata.
“It’s a traditional technique of community folk singing where you teach by ear,” Pendred said.
The choir began after the previous group closed down during covid restrictions, prompting members to start again locally once life returned to normal.
“There were initially eight people who met in a friend’s garage music room, but they very quickly outgrew it.”
The group has since grown to 33 singers, with members travelling from Paparoa, Maungaturoto, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka, Algies Bay, Snells Beach and Warkworth to attend the sessions.
She said their growth reflected a wider desire for social connection following years of isolation during covid and increased screen time on devices.
“There is such a need for social connection these days, as we live mostly insular lives. I marvel at the power of a simple, uplifting song to open and create joy and connection within a group, in a very short space of time.”
Pendred added that the choir sessions had helped build confidence and a sense of shared ownership among members.
“We always leave feeling better.”
The group performs up to twice a year, including a Winter Solstice concert scheduled for June 21.
“It gives our singers an opportunity to work towards a shared goal and present their songs in a supportive setting,” Pendred said.
Membership is $75 for 10 weeks. For more information, email assortedbiscuitschoir@gmail.com.
