Marie Hutchinson – Biography for Carol Poole Spirit of 26

Marie grew up singing in school and community choirs, including a Chamber Choir and a touring chorus in high school. It wasn’t surprising, given her background: a grandmother who organized the local dance band, a grandfather who sang into his 70s, a cousin who is a published composer.  In fact, Marie still remembers learning that not everyone’s mother plays five instruments. Working full time and raising a family kept her busy, but when she found herself with only one child living at home (and volunteering on only one school parent committee), her barbershopper brother challenged her to take in a guest night at Chinook Winds Chorus. Following a short and flirty fling with baritone, her thrilling tenor voice became a welcome addition to the chorus in 2009. 

Marie soon began singing tenor with Mixed Baris Quartet; so-called because all of them sang baritone (however briefly) at some point in their harmony adventure. Never content to follow the norm, she then joined her brother and sister in law and two more friends in a mixed barbershop quintet, aptly named - Quintessential.

Marie transitioned to the bass section in 2019 – stepping in as assistant to the bass section leader at the same time. Her lovely voice is appreciated, no matter which part she is singing!

Marie has been a valued and active member of the chorus on many committees and in many capacities. Whilst serving as our Social Media Guru, she has volunteered on the Management Team as Membership Chair, Communication Chair (two consecutive terms), and Membership Co-Chair (again).  Marie spends a great deal of time supporting the Marketing Team with her ideas and creative abilities – designing marketing materials, ads, banners, social media posts, business cards, etc. Marie is always ready to DIVE IN to help with chorus projects and we love to be with her.

Here are some words that chorus members use to describe Marie:

Joyful   Kind   Talented   Enthusiastic   Artistic   Focused   Genuine   Ready to smile and laugh   Authentic

Thorough – She Shows Up!