Wainwright’s River Hills Chorus is made up of an enthusiastic group of women who sing a cappella, four-part harmony music in a barbershop style. The music includes today’s ballads, classic songs, popular show tunes and mainstream music.
The chorus has been active in Wainwright since 1996. At that time women involved with Theatre 75 were inspired by Sheryl Brooke’s enthusiasm for barbershop and supported the idea of starting a barbershop chorus in Wainwright. There was a good turn out to the initial invitation and the chorus called the “Harmony Belles”, with Sheryl Brooke as director, was born
The chorus sang for the Wainwright parade, talent nights, at Mistahiya and in surrounding communities. It staged performances of Nunsense. After 4 years as the Harmony Belles, the chorus became a chartered member of Sweet Adelines International and the name was changed to the River Hills Chorus.
The chorus is a chapter of Region #26, the Western Canadian branch of Sweet Adelines International. As part of these regional and international bodies, opportunities are available for members and choruses to participate in music education, workshops and coaching that helps each member and each chorus improve their musical skills.
Sweet Adeline International has choruses in Canada, the United States and in 14 countries around the world. While most choruses hail from larger centers, Wainwright’s chorus celebrate's 20 years of singing in harmony
The River Hills Chorus is now under the direction of Connie Coleman. It competes regionally at least every three years in a major Western Canadian city. Judging is based on musicality, choreography, visual presentation and entertainment value.
A few members who sang with the original Harmony Belles are still part of the chorus. Others have come and gone as life and circumstances have changed. New members are always welcome. Women who like to sing and are interested in being part of the chorus are welcome. Members need to be 16 or older. The current chorus has a wide range of ages, from early 17 to 80 plus.
Locally the chorus participates in various volunteer community events and can be hired to entertain groups large and small.
