In His Prime: Ron Russell and his Commitment to Our Musical Community
Voices Rock Canada believes everyone should feel the joy that comes from singing and connecting in a choir community. Joy is contagious when you are in a room of adults who are passionate about the power of music.
Connection is everything these days – especially for a senior. We believe so strongly in the power of genuine connections that we limit the number of members in each of our choirs. Our small choir communities allow everyone to get to know each other fostering a sense of safety, support, and the freedom to express.
Our Prime Choir is a safe and fun place for seniors who have had a lifelong long affair with music – or have simply just stepped into their musical era. In today’s fast paced world, it can be difficult for a senior to find those genuine communities that foster their sense of self and empower them – but that’s what makes Voice Rock Canada different.
Ron Russell, Prime Choir member and retired letter carrier, knows exactly the power of our community. Ron is no stranger to performance – from 18-20 years-old he was a professional entertainer! He played in all 10 Canadian provinces and in the eastern states from Michigan to Florida.
For most of his professional life he believed his performing days were in the past – an awesome memory of that ‘pre-adult’ life of freedom. Little did he know that it was just beginning!
One-morning years ago Ron’s wife twisted his arm and got him to attend a Prime choir practice. He was just there to listen, but he couldn’t help but be moved by the music – and the community. He sat there smiling and realizing how much he missed singing and before heading home Ron joined the choir too. The choir was fun and reignited the love of performance for Ron.
Ron was diagnosed with cancer 15 years ago; it has been an emotional roller coaster for him ever since. The community and the focus on music has been his driver.“When I am working on learning the songs for Prime and preparing for our concerts, I forget everything about my health problems by just immersing myself in the music,” explained Ron.
Being a part of this choir community has given him a positive space to thrive. The joy of song is powerful.“During the COVID lockdowns the choir literally saved me by giving me something to look forward to every week when I had to start another round of treatments for my cancer,” Ron continues. The experience and accountability of being a part of a music group as a senior has propelled him forward. Even when we are far away from one another the pull of the community and the challenge of learning new songs and performances is grounding.
As a senior, life can be unpredictable. Being part of a group that gathers weekly provides stability; it also provides something to truly look forward to – something different, something challenging, something fun, and something uniquely personal.
We are so proud of Ron and his courage, his strength, and his immense joy in the face of any health challenge.
Voices Rock Canada is recruiting for our current seniors’ choir practicing on Wednesdays in Mississauga from 11:30am to 12:45pm. We’re also interested in starting a second group should there be interest. Reach out anytime(admin@voicesrockcanada.com)!
