Profile Joan Lockhart

Joan Lockhart

My history
I was born in Fort William Ontario. My grandmother was the last person to close the door on the Old Fort. My ancestors worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company in many of the Forts across Canada. One of them translated the Bible into Cree. Another founded Nanaimo, B.C. My father surveyed most of Northwestern Ontario. I spent a very happy childhood with my parents, two brothers and many cousins – growing up and vacationing at Silver Islet. We were very active in the church choir and performed in many community shows (e.g. Minstrel Shows). I convinced my parents to let me go away to school and attended Ontario College of Art in Toronto for four years. I clearly remember Hurricane Hazel! I met my husband in 1955 – he hired me as a swim instructor for the town of Longlac. Apparently, he liked how I looked in a swimsuit because we were engaged later that year and married in 1956.

My family & pets
I was married for 38 years to Walter. Together we have three children: Shelley, Margot & Randy – and five living grandchildren. Over the years we have had many dogs, cats and birds. We used to have a beautiful Sheltie, named Skye. I bought her as a surprise Christmas present for my granddaughter Katerina.

Where I live
We lived in Longlac, moved to Etobicoke (Toronto) and then bought 10 beautiful acres up in Caledon. Then I lived at the Lord Dufferin Centre in Orangeville and now at Chateau Gardens in Parkhill.

My work
As a young girl, I was very involved in Parks and Rec. In the 70s I taught public school at Inglewood and Belfountain. I was a home care worker for Red Cross for a number of years. I supported Katerina’s music education through TOYS and piano lessons.

My volunteering
I volunteered as a driver for Caledon Community Services, the Rainbow Auxiliary at Avalon and ushered at Theatre Orangeville.

Travel
I’ve been out east, out west to visit my daughter Margot when she was in Vancouver, and down to Georgia visiting with my cousin Connie.

My other pastimes, hobbies & passions
Gardening, Photography, St. Mark’s Choral Society, Operettas, Artist’s Way, Performing. Looking after grandchildren.

Musical instruments I play (or have played)
Piano – grade 8. I used to accompany my brother Jack (violin concertos).

Unusual things I have done
I drove every summer up to Thunder Bay on my own to reconnect with my family, my past history and get renewed.

How & why I got started with Sweet Adelines
Kay McGregor introduced me to the chorus, and I watched them perform in the Orangeville Mall. I’ve often said we should do that again – a great way to advertise. I’ve been a member since 1981 and performed with the chorus at our very first regional contest. My brother Stuart (tenor) was a Men’s Chorus Director in Thunder Bay and a member of 8 quartets!

Chorus trips
I’ve attended all Regional Contests and International Contests at: Phoenix, New Orleans, Portland, Nashville and Indianapolis. IES – South Carolina. And of course, our memorable trip to Paris where we sang on the Metro, in front of the Eiffel Tower, on the steps of the Paris Opera House, and at the UNESCO Palace. We Canadians brought snow to Paris!

Chorus committees
Board, Music Team, Tenor Section Leader. I have been a member of most committees over the 25 years.

Quartets/Double quartets
I’ve sung in 8 quartets…

JJAM Session – Joan, Anne Richardson, Joan B, Martina E,

Anticipation – Joan, Anne R, Colleen C, Heather C,

Perspicasity – Joan, Anne R, Ruth B., Colleen C.

Country Classics – Joan, Anne R, Anne M, Pat V,

Town & Country – Joan, Anne R, Cheryl H, Pat V,

rapport – Joan, Anne R, Pat V, Janet S,

Tangerine Joan, Anne R, Pat V, Janet S,

UltraSound – Joan, Anne R, Betty D, Karen F.

We competed in many Comedy Quartets – we even won once.

Desperate Divas - Competed at the Fall Music School Octet contest (a respectable fifth)

Chorus connections
My daughter Shelley joined in 2003. My granddaughter Katerina performed on stage with us at Musical Mosaic (T.O.Y.S.).

A chorus moment I will always remember (other than winning!)
Competing on the quartet stage (Perspicacity in Albany) – we survived !

Singing with the Queens in Phoenix.

Performing at UNESCO in Paris. Hitting the high note.

Receiving my 25-year pin and the photo album.

Receiving the Sweet Adeline of the Year award.

Receiving the HARMONY rock from Pat.

"My memory is failing me now -- I may not remember your name, but I know who you are, and I love watching you sing every week."