Home |   Event Calendar | New Organ | Activities | History  Reports 

BROMYARD & DISTRICT CHORAL SOCIETY  

On Saturday 19th May 2007, the Bromyard & District Choral Society treated an enthralled audience, at the Bromyard Centre, to its 50th anniversary concert.

            The golden theme was tastefully and cleverly threaded throughout the evening, from buttonholes and scarves to floral arrangements and commemorative programmes. The concert itself lived up to expectation, involving two conductors, three guest soloists and an orchestra, Bromyard Sinfonia, as well as the choir.

            The first half was a performance of the choral suite from 'The Armed Man', a Mass for Peace by Karl Jenkins. This was conducted by David Barclay, with soprano soloist, Elizabeth MacDonald. The Mass was commissioned by the Royal Armouries for the Millennium and first performed at the Royal Albert Hall in 2000. Although a new piece, many parts were familiar (thanks to Classic FM!) The audience found the music inspiring, the singing very clear, articulate and moving; and over too soon!

            During the interval, the visiting party of officials from Tanzania were welcomed by the Society's Patron, Councillor Jonathon Lester during his address at this, his first public engagement since becoming Mayor of Bromyard and Winslow.

            The second part of the evening was a change of style and conductor; the classical 'Creation' (parts I and 2) by Franz Josef Haydn, conducted by Sir Richard Mynors.  All three soloists, Elizabeth MacDonald, David Watkin-Holmes, tenor and David Usher, bass, sang with great feeling and the trio were beautifully balanced.  Again the orchestra was very well conducted and accompanied superbly.

The rendition, which included my favourite spine tingling 'Let there be LIGHT' refrain, was performed excellently with much power where needed and control, with musical light and shade, when this was required.

            The contrast between the two pieces highlighted the ability, versatility and polish of the choral society. It was lovely to watch the expressions on choir members faces, as they were obviously enjoying the concert as much as we were.

            The evening rounded off with an address by the President, Rev. Preb.Walter Gould and a presentation to two founder members, Pat Taylor and Margaret Herbert, in recognition of their 50 years of service to the society.

            The whole occasion was very enjoyable and memorable with so much local musical talent, both vocal and instrumental on display. I, as a member of the audience, feel privileged to have witnessed such an event. I cannot wait for the next Anniversary concert, if only to see the Chairman, Martin Ganderton, in a Penguin Suit again!

                                                                                                                                                  AS