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Remembering
Keith Norton
Keith loved singing. He loved a challenge and a project. He had a lifelong love of music, a great deal of his experiences eventually revolving around his choral involvement. He sang with Royston Choral Society, and was a lifelong bass member of both Dodworth and Skelmanthorpe Male Voice Choirs and contributed leading organisational roles in each.
After retiring as a teacher, he and Mat had the vision of forming a choir for children who lived in the Barnsley borough. The commitment, motivated by the passion for excellence, together as a team, united by a common goal to enable young people to participate in performance opportunities and to sing some amazing music was a dream come true.
The seed was sown. Having lived and worked in Barnsley all his life it seemed only fitting to give something back to the town and of course it had to be a choir – what else?
A great collaborator, he quietly supported others to provide opportunities for young people to perform. Keith was heavily involved as arts project manager of large-scale singing events in Barnsley, working with 14 schools in the borough, staging a series of large community musicals in the Metrodome, with Mat working alongside him.
This led to Mat organising the visit from the Aurin Choir from Hungary in 2005 – the beginning of a lasting relationship that continues into our special celebration.
P6
So... after lots of planning meetings, invitations were sent out to every school in the borough inviting youngsters to audition for the choir. Interest was expected, but Mat and Keith were surprised by over 160 eager young singers. Kingstone School was very supportive, providing not only a venue for weekly rehearsals but also with administrative support and equipment. Keith agreed to be Chairman,
a committee was formed, musical directors and musicians appointed and even, with the help of Keith’s friendly smile, volunteers drafted in (some of whom are still active today).
The choir has grown in size and reputation over the years; travelling overseas, bringing home Gold diplomas and medals. Unfortunately Keith passed away before these visits abroad but I know just how proud Keith would have been. With the inspirational leadership, commitment and dedication of members of BYC, all expectations have been exceeded. What an incredible journey we have travelled! BYC will always miss Keith and the legacy he left behind.
Julie Norton
10th Anniversary Concerts 2019