Retreads harmonize for 30 years

Rachel Lau

They’ve been rehearsing since May and now the Retreads Harmony Group, comprised of 14 retired men together for 30 years, are ready for another season of song.

Although the group has been reduced from its original 30, the choir is still going strong, organizer Doug Cooke, says of his longstanding West Island group: “We perform from October to Christmas, then from February to May.”

They perform in residences and bring a repertoire drawing largely from the 1920s and 1930s: “all the songs that they remember.”

The group performs mainly in the West Island with members “from Hudson to NDG and everything in between.”

When the audience starts to sing along, says Cooke, it’s amazing. That’s what they aim for during these performances.

Over the years, the choir has raised money for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, NOVA and many more beneficiaries. Their donations have amounted to over $30,000.

The Retreads Harmony Group is seeking volunteers to join the choir. “We just want bodies,” Cooke says. “If they can carry a tune, then great!” The only requirements are to be willing and able.

Performances are once a week in the afternoons and last from an hour to an hour and a half.

Their first performance of the season will be at 7 pm Monday, October 13 at 20 Vermont in Pointe Claire.

Info: 514-630-9660.