Toowoomba choir makes a rainbow out of therapeutic music ...

Topics:? artability exhibition, assert services, disability action week, rainbow choir

THE power of music can't be denied, especially when it brings together people of all abilities.

A very special Toowoomba choir has been changing people's perceptions of those with a disability for six years.

The Rainbow Choir, run by not-for-profit organisation Assert Services, attracted roughly 60 members this year who have been meeting weekly to practise for their upcoming performance during Disability Action Week.

Open to children and adults of any age and ability (the youngest this year is just six and the oldest 65), Assert Services chief executive officer Bronwyn Herbertson said it was an enjoyable therapy for the members.

"Music is such an amazing thing that everyone loves and responds to, no matter what their ability level is. It's about getting together, enjoying ourselves and enjoying music," she said.

Their weekly practices will culminate with an annual performance at 3.30pm this Monday at the Toowoomba City Library.

"We've been together for so long, we really are like a family," Bronwyn said.

"We're all good friends and we've seen some great friendships develop. Everyone has fun and it gives them a chance to have informal interaction time."

The performance is just one of the events taking place during Disability Action Week, beginning tomorrow and running until September 14.

Take a stroll along Ruthven St and you might notice some spectacular artwork on display in many of the shopfront windows.

It is the second time the Artability Exhibition is on, showcasing pieces from 50 local artists.

After a hugely successful launch in 2012, event co-ordinator Toni Mitchell said there would again be a variety of artwork on display, from paintings to pottery and mosaic pieces.

"It's all about celebrating the talents and achievements of people with a disability, and also getting the wider community involved in supporting people with a disability," Toni said.

"I have been completely blown away by the talent of these people we have in our community.

"I'm really excited about how many people have embraced it and so many shops have been keen to get involved too."

The artwork will on display from today, with selected pieces available for sale.

A services expo will be held next Thursday at Grand Central, offering a one-stop-shop for anyone looking for more information on services provided by the disability sector.

For more information on the Artability Exhibition or the expo, phone Toni Mitchell on 0438 327 984.

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What's happening during Disability Action Week:

• Sunday, September 8-Saturday, September 15: Second annual Artability Exhibition,?Ruthven St (between Herries and Russell Sts)
• Monday, September 9: Performance by the Rainbow Choir at 3.30pm,?Toowoomba City Library
• Thursday, September 12: Services Expo at Grand Central, 9am to 9pm

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Source: http://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/music-turns-their-rainbow/2013916/

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