IWA Choir spreads festive cheer at Mount Miriam Hospital

The International Women’s Association (IWA) Choir, comprised of IWA members and passionate singing enthusiasts, commenced their yearly Christmas carolling tour.

Their journey took them to numerous charitable organisations, spreading joy among the residents. Culminating their festive season, the choir’s final performance was hosted at Mount Miriam Hospital.

The festive journey

The IWA Choir, led by Nancy Jenster for this session, maintained their enduring tradition of spreading Christmas cheer.

They visited locations including the Handicapped Children’s Centre, The Cerebral Palsy (Spastic) Children’s Association of Penang, St Nicolas’ Home, Silver Jubilee Home, and Little Sisters of the Poor.

Linda Batten, an IWA committee member, expressed gratitude for the volunteers who dedicated their time to make these visits possible.

She shared, “It is so heartwarming to visit these places as the joy the people have on their faces is wonderful to see. They appreciate us singing with them, and we love spreading goodwill and happiness.”

IWA Choir continuing the tradition

Marlene Fox, the usual leader of the choir, passed the baton to Nancy Jenster for this season due to her absence. Speaking from the United Kingdom, Marlene highlighted the choir’s history since its formation in 1984.

The choir not only visits charities but also performs at various events, including fundraising activities. Marlene emphasised, “To fund treats for the visits to the residents, our choir performs for commercial functions too.”

With over 40 members, including men of varying ages, the choir sings in four-part harmony accompanied by Tan Saw Tin on the keyboard.

During their visit to Mount Miriam Hospital on December 12th, the choir encountered a poignant moment when Farizah Binti Zakarya, awaiting radiotherapy treatment, celebrated her birthday. The choir serenaded her, creating a touching and emotional experience.

The festive spirit extended beyond the choir, as visitors and patients at Mount Miriam Hospital joined the Christmas carolling.

The joyous chorus, featuring classic tunes like ‘Mary Had a Baby’, ‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Silent Night’, ‘White Christmas’, ‘Ding-Dong Merrily on High’, and ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’, resonated through the hospital, bringing warmth and celebration to the festive season.

The IWA Choir’s commitment to spreading happiness through music continues to be a source of comfort and joy for those they touch during their annual carolling tradition.