A new book recalling the story of Waterford's 'High Hopes Choir' is set to be released in the coming weeks.
'Our Stories Through Song', written by Cathy McCarthy, will tell readers of the uplifting tales of the choir to date.
The choir was founded in 2015 by conductor David Brophy.
The book introduces the members of the choir, as well as their hopes. aspirations and struggles - such as homelessness and addiction.
The aim of the book is to show how the choir has helped many to turn their lives around through song, music and friendship.
The story will feature pieces from Glen Hansard, Micheal O Muircheartaigh, Sister Stan, Fr. Peter McVerry, Brother Kevin and Luke O'Neill.
Cathy McCarthy
Author Cathy McCarthy, has previously written a number of books, including an inspiring story of surviving cancer. Cathy is from Dublin but lived in Waterford for ten years.
She says the story of the choir is one she connected with.
"I remember thinking the story of the choir, and what they are going through - is a perfect story for a book. I mean, who hasn't been through adversity - and the people in the choir have been through so much. Long story short, I got in touch with Terence O'Neill. I went down to Waterford on a very wet day, in March 2015. The people in the choir liked me. They gave me a story. I came back a week later - the rest is history."
Cathy says that Covid-19 proved a challenge in getting the book together, but it has been an amazing journey.
"I loved every minute of it. It was very difficult at times through Covid. I had planned to go down and meet people, but it wasn't to be. That was a mountain to climb. We had a few problems on the way, of course you have to have obstacles. You learn for those. I have to say I loved every second of it. It was the most interesting thing I've done. I met the most interesting people. It has been an amazing journey."
Support
The people of Waterford have helped The High Hopes Choir to thrive, as a book on their story is set to be launched. Chairman of the choir, Damien O'Sullivan, says local businesses have been fantastic ahead of the launch of 'Our Stories Through Song'.
Damien says the choir would be nothing without the support of the public.
"Over the years, the people of Waterford really have helped the choir. Audiences have been great, and so have local businesses. Everyone from Tony Fitzgerald, who sponsored suits for us before, The Book Centre now will definitely be on board with the launch. We have lots of venues which we sang in and practiced in. The people of Waterford have been great. We're just hopeful now that local businesses and companies will donate."
