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'Oh yeah, I'm nervous'

Andrew Rankin
Northern News Services
Published Thursday, December 10, 2009

INUVIK - Chris Garven needs no reminder that the annual Community Christmas Concert is just around the corner.

In fact it starts Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Igloo Church.

NNSL photo/graphic

The Community Christmas Choir appeared ready to go at its practice on Sunday. - Andrew Rankin/NNSL photos

Garven is among six men who will sing with the Community Christmas Choir that night, one of many hometown Christmas performances to look forward to.

As of Sunday, when the group held its fifth and final practice at the Anglican Church of the Ascension, he was starting to feel the pressure.

"Oh yeah, I'm nervous," Garven said with a laugh.

It's not a case of the first year jitters either, as he has been singing with the Christmas choir for the last 10 years. He doesn't have such a bad voice either.

Like the 15 or so women in the choir, the men also have to be on point.

"It's about getting that first note right," said Garven. "If you get that first note right, you're OK. If you screw up on that first note, you're toast."

The choir, which is led by Sir Alexander Mackenzie School music teacher Cynthia Maynard, is expected to perform three spirited Christmas songs. Judging from Sunday's practice, the group will put on a show marked by some beautiful harmonies guaranteed to stir the Christmas spirit.

Garven remains confident that all will be well come Sunday. He'll be happy to be taking part.

"It's special," said the active community volunteer. "Everybody's having a good time and I love singing."

Miki O'Kane, choir organizer, said she's happy to have the fellas on board.

"It adds a flavour to the event," she said with a smile. "They're all capable. It's just a matter of practice."

Bob Mumford, said he's enjoying the opportunity to broaden his musical range as he learns more about reading music to sing.

But Mumford said he's not as nervous as his buddy Chris.

"No, not really," he said with a laugh. "There's really no pressure. It's about bringing friends and neighbours together."

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