Mary Harris – Rock Choir Camberley
Mary has been part of Rock Choir Camberley for over ten years, and her journey began thanks to a little encouragement from a friend.
“My best friend Carmel discovered Rock Choir on a poster and dragged me along.”
That one moment led to something that would become a meaningful and lasting part of Mary’s life. She joined during Choir Leader Danny Gortler’s early days with the Camberley morning choir, and from those first rehearsals, she found herself part of something she would continue to return to.
“We joined in Danny’s first term and we’ve been coming for over ten years now!”
Years of unforgettable moments
Over the years, Mary has taken part in a wide range of experiences through Rock Choir, each one adding to her story.
She has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, stood in the moving surroundings of the Menin Gate in Belgium singing “Hallelujah” a cappella, and recorded songs at Abbey Road Studios alongside Choir Leader Danny Gortler.
Each of these moments has brought something different, from the atmosphere of live performances to the reflection of singing in meaningful places, and the excitement of recording together.
A place she continues to return to
Through the years, Rock Choir has remained an important part of Mary’s life.
Even as Alzheimer’s and dementia have made things more challenging, she continues to find joy in attending rehearsals whenever she can.
“Even though Alzheimer’s and Dementia are making things harder day by day, I still enjoy coming to rehearsals every week that I can.”
The support around her has made a real difference. From her Choir Leader to the people she sings alongside, she has always felt encouraged and welcomed.
“Danny and the whole choir have always been really supportive during my time here.”
“Singing just makes you feel so good”
For Mary, the feeling she gets from singing remains simple and powerful.
From that first rehearsal she attended with her friend Carmel to everything that has followed, singing has remained something she holds onto and enjoys in her own way, week by week.
