Every year, before we start our vocal exercises at the beginning of the first rehearsal of the year, we announce our chosen beneficiary for the forthcoming programme of performances and events. Choir members with an interest in a particular organisation, through personal experience, volunteering or choice, nominate their favourite local charity to whom our performance collection proceeds and other donations will go to at the end of the year. All our suggestions are put into a “hat” and one is selected at random, the whole process being keenly overseen by a witness (inevitably with a camera running!).

For 2023 Gill Chapple, who has been with Concentus since 2017, nominated Chestnut Tree House and theirs was the name pulled out of the hat at the beginning of the year; Gill has been a volunteer fundraiser for them since 2011.

Chestnut Tree House is a Children’s Hospice providing care for children and young people with life-limiting conditions in Sussex and South East Hampshire. The choir not only donated retiring collection funds from its summer and Christmas performances but, with Gill organising it every week at rehearsals, ran a second-hand book and puzzle stall; they also held a cake sale at their two all day rehearsals prior to performances. All of this led to a grand total of £2604.23 being collected. Rehearsal time was given over to Jayne Todd from Chestnut Tree House to give her thanks and to accept the cheque from Adrian White, Musical Director, who presented it on behalf of the choir (pictured) on a recent Monday evening before rehearsals.

For more details about event tickets, the choir and their concerts, please visit the Concentus website at www.concentus-sings.com or call the Box Office on 01323 912770 or email info@concentus-sings.com.