A PORTLAND choir has been chosen to lead an event supporting a nationwide music festival this summer.

Island Voices Choir and its leader, Su Lewis, have been awarded a grant from Superact and the Department of Communities and Local Government to organise an Our Big Gig Event.

People of all ages will be able to attend the event, ‘Sounding the Sea’ at St Mary’s Church in Weymouth on July 12.

People will be able to join in the music making process as well as be part of the audience.

It includes a free open-access harmony singing workshop from 12.30pm and a concert from 2.45pm featuring Island Voices, including the Quangle Wangle Choir, Weymouth Ukeleleans, Dorset Wrecks, Bagatelle, Weymouth Accordion Club and Sea Sound Singers joined by workshop participants.

Su Lewis, Musical Director for Island Voices said: “It’s fantastic that Island Voices have been selected from thousands of applicants to run an Our Big Gig event here in Dorset.

“As a choir we’re passionate that more people should take an active part in singing and songwriting.

“We’re really looking forward to celebrating and sharing the wide range of music making opportunities in our local area, and would encourage others to get involved themselves in the future.”

Our Big Gig is an Inspired by 2012 project which aims to keep the legacy of the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics alive by bringing communities together.

Launching Our Big Gig for 2014, Communities Minister Stephen Williams said: “Our Big Gig is a great opportunity for local people to take the lead in putting on a musical event that unites their local community, celebrates home grown talent and inspires people without a background in music to get involved.” Katharine Lane, director of event supporters Superact, an arts organisation, added: “We were overwhelmed by the level of interest in Our Big Gig this year.

“Superact is pleased to be supporting 150 events across the country this year and we can’t wait to see people’s plans come together over the coming months.”

For more information about the Weymouth event contact Su Lewis on 07593 063551 or email weysound@ naturalvoice.net