25/07/2026
❤️ Belonging is Beautiful - Tributes sought for a Life Member ❤️
Rehearsing and performing barbershop harmonies in person with a group of women of all ages is a treasured activity. Bonds are formed that last for lifetimes. So, when a long-standing and current member of chorus passes away, we reflect on their contributions and achievements with tears, laughter, and ... song.
Pat Webster belonged to Dunedin Harmony Chorus for nearly 30 years and in recent times was bestowed a Life Membership. The title reflected her commitment to the organisation and the special role she played with coordinating many of the social activities - especially delicious supper nights - that helped our chorus gel.
An outstanding home baker who would handwrite recipes for members who inquired, she also frequently organised sales of baked goods and jars of preserves to keep the chorus finances ship shape.
Pat was a superb bass singer and shared her love for music and knowledge with members during coaching sessions, and would often run invigorating physical and informative vocal warmups at rehearsals.
Having worked as a nurse and brought up her own family, Pat was like a second mother to many younger singers. She paid special attention to welcoming and supporting new recruits as they navigated chorus routines, and quietly kept an eye on the health and wellbeing of all members when they were presented with challenges outside of chorus.
A true adherent to the barbershop art form, Pat adored many of the older tunes in the chorus repertoire and was over the moon with song choices for the 2026 Convention (The Way You Look Tonight and Nice Work If You Can Get It). Alas, she didn't get to compete this year as her energies were increasingly directed to a valiant battle with cancer.
At Pat's request, the chorus gathered at her memorial service to sing some of her favourite tunes. This was an especially poignant task for members who dressed in bright colours and acquitted themselves to the moment with feeling.
Pat will be fondly remembered by our chorus for years to come. Her wit, commonsense, harmony, and baking made her a very special member indeed. And, her passing is a timely reminder of the cherished role organisations like Dunedin Harmony Chorus play in fostering community spirit in the real world. Our chorus, and our community, will always value people like Pat.
❤️ DID YOU KNOW PAT? We‘d love you to leave a memory in the comments ❤️
Sweet Adelines International New Zealand
