In 1992 musicians Reg and Lynne Dickson had lived at their beloved Davis Bay home for 20 years. One of their favourite activities was a brisk walk along the beach, whatever the weather. When they were asked to write a song for an album that would raise funds for cystic fibrosis research, they wrote about what they knew. Walk in the Wind was the title track. Forty local businesses chipped in to cover the costs of recording, and though the Dicksons wrote seven songs for that album, Walk in the Wind became one of their most popular.
“We’ve been singing that song ever since,” said Lynne. “People sing along – they like it.
This month the prestigious Cypress Choral Music company has arranged the song for choirs and the company’s own choir recorded it. The music is now available to other choristers across the country.
The Dicksons are delighted with the result. “They’ve added extra parts,” Lynne said, “really made it nice and it makes for a richer harmony.”
When Cypress CEO Larry Nickel put out a call for submissions for music that could be adapted to choirs, Lynne sent in her suggestions. Out of 200 submissions to the company, only 20 were chosen – theirs was one. Cypress publishes music by Canadians only or music arranged by Canadians. It was founded by the late Diane Loomer, a visionary leader of Vancouver’s active choral scene, who has left a legacy of musical compositions.
“I like the recording as well,” said Coast choir leader Joy McLeod, currently the conductor of the Messiah Choir. “Larry Nickel has a great reputation, both as a musician and businessman, so they should do very well with this. Nice that it was released during Canada’s 150th birthday.”
The lyrics describe the kites in the sky, the waves, the children playing, and then the tune breezes through an upbeat refrain: “Walk in the wind with me/Down by the edge of the sea.” To hear the music go to: www.cypresschoral.com. Click on composers/Dickson, and have a listen.
