PEI’s Barbershop Women’s Chorus, Island A Cappella, has brought women together in Charlottetown for over 40 years while entertaining the province. The chorus is a diverse and multi-generational group of over 40 fun-loving, energetic women who promote musical excellence and community building.

Island A Cappella offers a welcoming space for women to connect and share their love of music, especially those from out of province. The chorus sings four-part a cappella music (without instrumental accompaniment) in the barbershop harmony style. The group recently organized the “True Colours” program, welcoming community members to learn and perform together. Every week, the members of the chorus get together for rehearsals, as the women together promote well-being. Studies show that choir participation can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function, linking group singing to faster recovery from depression and better mental agility in older adults.

At 78 years of age, Eileen Braidwood is one of Island A Cappella’s longest-standing members, singing and performing for 52 years. She first joined a chorus in Montreal as an immigrant mother, later sang in Ottawa, and found a home with Island A Cappella after retiring to PEI.

Brenda Smith, the group’s president, also found friendship and purpose through singing. After retiring to PEI, she joined Island A Cappella and quickly formed connections. Under her leadership, the group is growing, with a focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring all women feel welcome.

If you love to sing in harmony and want to improve your vocal skills and have fun, Island A Cappella may be the perfect organization for you.

Source: Saltwire