Three weeks ago Birrell stood in front of the Peterborough Singers for the final time to conduct their annual performance of Handel’s Messiah. 1,300 people came to the show to witness his last musical event as Artistic Director.
“As I lifted my hands, I was keenly aware that this moment was both an ending and a culmination,” said Birrell in a press release. “I will carry the sound, the emotion and the shared energy of those evenings with me for the rest of my life.”
The $100,000 goal for the Artistic Director’s legacy fund was reached in the early morning of Jan. 1.
“Over the past 35 years, the Peterborough Singers has grown into something far greater than I could ever have imagined when we first gathered. Yes, it is a choir that strives for thrilling musical excellence,” he continued. “But more importantly, it has become a place of friendship, safety, inclusivity, kindness, joy and love. In rehearsal rooms and concert halls, in moments of laughter and moments of quiet support, this choir has reflected the very best of what community can be.”
The campaign for Syd's Legacy Fund will continue until the end of this season.
A new Artistic Director for Peterborough Singers has yet to be announced.
“Thank you for your trust, your voices and your hearts. Thank you for reminding me, week after week and year after year, why this work matters. I leave this role with immense gratitude, deep peace and unwavering confidence in what lies ahead for the Peterborough Singers,” Birrell concluded.
