Victoria Welsh Choir

Vic Welsh Performances in 2015

Celebrating the Welsh, Irish and Scottish cultures in song, humour and passion

28th February 2015

St David’s Day Celtic Concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre: "I am happy as long as I can hear those wonderful voices.When the choir sings it is music to my soul!" "a spectacularly successful evening" "Enjoyed the variety" "outstanding – as always!" "lifted our spirit"

Drawing on the success of last year’s concert with a Celtic slant, this theme was developed to include a Welsh folk group, a group of Irish dancers and tunes and flags from all the Celtic outposts in the British Isles.

The roar of applause after the opening Gwŷr Harlech showed that the capacity audience was musically appreciative and hungry for more. Our guest conductor from Wales, Geraint Roberts, then took to the rostrum and, with wife Angela at the piano, launched us into What Would I Do Without My Music, a question asked and answered in the inimitable choral way. Two stalwarts of the Welsh male choir repertoire came next with the rousing Laudamus and the popular Morte Criste.

This was followed by the beautifully modulated soprano voice of Rhonda Yates (above in blue) as she soloed on Diolch I’r Iôr with the choir to great acclaim.

Tenor David Scott from Wales then gave the audience an unexpected treat with a sensitive rendition of If With All Your Hearts from Elijah by Mendelssohn.

Faleiry returned to conduct Gounod’s Sanctus with a pitch-perfect solo by soprano Melinda Ash (left) which the audience loved.

Then, by way of complete contrast, the thrilling sound of the Scottish bagpipes was heard at the back of the hall and piper Chris Bouwmeester skirled himself up on the stage before playing the intro to the powerful Amazing Grace. Once our ears had readjusted, the choir moved from ship to shore with a sensitive a cappella rendering of Ar Lan Y Môr.

The choir then took a rest and, along with everyone else in the hall, were captivated by the vigour and precision of the Cosgriff Irish Dancers. With a combination of soft and hard shoe dancing, they were an aural and visual feast for all the senses, defying anyone not to get their own toes tapping.

The second half opened with the sense of longing all people feel for their homeland and Welshman Stephen Lynn’s plaintive tenor voice in Hiraeth goose-bumped the entire hall. It certainly had the desired effect on the conductor as Faleiry was moved to give the soloist a Welsh hug. And then another assault on our emotions as Rhonda’s voice soared in the welcome back song Unwaith Eto’n ’Nghymru Annwyl.

Tears and makeup were attended to, tissues balled up and relocated before Faleiry composed herself to go and sit at the Welsh harp to play with the Welsh folk group Pendragon Dreaming. Spirited performances of Hen Ferchetan and Nyth Y Gôg were followed by Owen Huw's Hornpipe with a display of Welsh clog dancing by Lauren Ash, followed by the traditional Ffair y Dorth. Instrumental versatility was evident in Gawain switching from double bass to guitar, Siân from flute to violin and Pedr combining vocals with the ladies while managing both the guitar and didge (pictured left to right: Pedr, Gawain, Siân, Faleiry).

Geraint returned to the rostrum to conduct the choir in the liltingHafan Gobaith, made famous by Bryn Terfel, and the stirring and patriotic O Gymru, a new song for the choir and which was received very warmly.

Then we were into our finale of a Celtic Kaleidoscope to showcase various soloists and Celtic tunes, complete with their respective flags being waved. Melinda switched languages from Latin to Welsh to once again display her angelic voice on Y Nefoedd (Heaven).

Bass Graeme Sanderson represented the Cornish with a wonderfully modulated and dramatic version of Trelawny with the choir coming in with the chorus.

Even the Celtic outpost of the Isle of Man offered a lovely haunting tune in Ellan Vannin with a very accomplished and sensitive duet by baritone Roger Bartlett and tenor Rushan Hewawasam. Bass Barry McMahon gave a very strong and confident rendition of the Scottish tune Wild Mountain Thyme before the indefatigable compère Drew Hopkins brilliantly articulated the difficult lyrics of the Irish tune The Spanish Lady, accompanied by Gawain Keen on guitar. For extra impact we also had castanets from Alex van Mens and Geoff Roberts and flaming flamenco dancing from Lauren Ash.

Patrons were tremendously appreciative of the musical journey they had been part of and there was great applause for all the singers, dancers and other artists as they filled up the stage to receive their well-deserved accolades.

There only remained for Geraint and Angela to lead the upstanding assembly in the anthem Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.

Comments from the audience included:

The two pianists were exceptional. Geraint was entertaining, he could extract the best out of the choir.
Congratulations to the organiser for a job well done. I hope to see the choir again next year.
As someone not of Welsh origins I particularly enjoy the more familiar songs,including Irish & Scottish.
All good. A great night.
The 2015 program was excellent in content and performance.
Greatly enjoyed all aspects of tonight’s performance.
Look forward to future visits from Wales and future concerts.
I am happy with either a Welsh theme or combined as long as I can hear those wonderful voices. Our heritage is Cornish and Scottish and I love the blend of voices in the male choir. When the choir sings it is music to my soul! Thank you.
I would like to make special mention of Lorna Ogilvie & thank her for the beautiful, sympathetic and talented piano accompanying.
Personally I really enjoy the Welsh language items but the other items provide a light enjoyable relief especially for Scots and Irish. Lovely to have Cornwall represented.
Congratulations and thank you for a spectacularly successful evening. The choice of songs was excellent and the arrangement of the program was excellent too. The quality of the singers and dancers was brilliant.
Always find concerts rousing, well presented . Excellent support artists.
Always a wonderful, friendly musical experience.
A wonderful evening, lifted our spirit.
I loved the evening and will be in touch with my friends again to go to another concert.
Enjoyed the M.C. and his insight to the music and the performers.
I’ve never been to a concert of the choir before and was very impressed, thank you.
My Dad was the best!
Loved the choir and soloists.
Overall an excellent presentation.
Enjoyed the variety – the choir and the soloists were amazing. Loved the Irish dancers and the two female singers. I’m looking forward to the October concert. Many thanks to all.
The standard of the choral music and all the other items was outstanding – as always! Just wish I could go to one of these events every other week… impossible of course but that’s how enjoyable they are. Thank you choir and especially thank you to all those behind the scenes working so tirelessly.

And from one of our Welsh visitors:

WOW! What an honour to visit Melbourne and sing with the Victoria Welsh Male choir, all 3 of us were astounded at the at the professionalism of your performance, David Scott, Dave Watts and myself Mel Evans enjoyed our visit so much and the hospitality (Thanks so much, Bill). The long flight from Wales was worth every minute.

Cymanfa Ganu

1st March 2015 at St Michael's Church in Collins St

On Sunday 1st March VIc Welsh joined other local Welsh choirs and the Welsh community to celebrate St David's Day on the day itself leading the congregation in a festival of Welsh hymns at St Michael's Church in Collins St.

Wedding - Côr Bach

14th March 2015 in Anglesea

On 14th March 2015 Vic Welsh's Côr Bach (Small Choir) sang at the wedding of a Welshman to an Australian in the garden of a private home in Anglesea.

Before the ceremony began we sang Men of Harlech, Si Hei Lwli Mabi, World in Union, and our bilingual version of Waltzing Matilda, before announcing the arrival of the bride with Myfanwy.

During the ceremony we greeted the celebrant's declaration that the couple were now man and wife with the jubilant Haleliwia from Rachie – a magic moment. Then during the signing of the register we sang a medley of songs from the sixties - House of the Rising Sun, He Ain’t Heavy, How Do You Do It? and Da Do Ron Ron, finally joining in the choruses as soloist Matt Green, with Nick McGrath on guitar, sang Happy Together.

Afterwards as the reception began we kept guests entertained with Calon Lân, Amazing Grace, Little Deuce Coupe, You'll Never Walk Alone, We'll Keep a Welcome, and, by request, a reprise of Men of Harlech.

The bride and groom said they were thrilled by the quality of our singing and the contribution it made to their special day, as were the bride's parents.

Lancefield - Côr Bach

Singing in the Ranges

15th March 2015 at the Mechanics' Institute: "Stirred our hearts" "most professional" "loved the piper" "impressed by the variety"

Local bagpiper Malcolm Sinclair and his wife Mardi, playing the drum, were dressed in traditional Scottish kilts on Sunday 15 March when they accompanied the Victoria Welsh Male Choir at the Lancefield Mechanics Hall. At the sell-out concert, they played the well-known hymn, Amazing Grace, and received resounding applause for their contribution. They also accompanied Romsey resident Rev. Tom Morgan on the patriotic Highland Cathedral.

The concert was a fundraising event as part of the Restoration Appeal for Christ Church Lancefield. Under the baton of musical director, Faleiry Koczkar OAM, this very popular concert opened to the rousing sounds of Gwŷr Harlech – or to the non-Welsh speaking in the audience, the well-known, popular and very distinctive Men of Harlech! It was sung so loudly and with such great enthusiasm by the choir that it was impossible to remain silent. So popular was this song that many audience members made their voices heard. The man behind me should certainly audition for the choir – the MC was calling for recruits to the Bendigo, Ballarat or Blackburn branches! Many in the audience also sang along to the solos and medleys. A word sheet was provided to assist the audience with the hymn Cwm Rhondda and The Bonnie Banks O’ Loch Lomon’ sung by Barry McMahon and the choir. Indeed, musical director Faleiry Koczkar coached the audience and when the audience’s rendition was not to her satisfaction, we sang it again… and again. All great fun!

Solos by choristers Ambrose Morgan, Roger Bartlett and Bob Ash captivated the audience. The choir excelled, and there was not a dry eye in the house when they sang Working Man, the story of an old miner.

In recognition of the forthcoming Anzac Day celebrations and the 100th anniversary of the event, a selection of World War One songs clearly took many of the older members of the audience back in time. Patrons enjoyed singing along to Roses of Picardy, Over There, Keep the Home Fires Burning, Pack up Your Troubles and It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.

And no concert of a Celtic nature would be complete without a rendition of Danny Boy, sung by Edwin Hughes. But surely the most impressive achievement of the day was the final offering of Waltzing Matilda. Arranged by Philip Carmody, Faleiry Koczkar and accompanist Lorna Ogilvie, their version of the well-known Australian folk song incorporated the Welsh National Anthem. This was, I felt, a masterstroke, admired by the audience as a whole.

Afternoon tea was provided and there was also an impressive spread of sandwiches, savoury items, cakes and slices as well as cups of tea and coffee. Further fundraisers of this kind would, I feel, fill the Mechanics Hall once again. Let there be more music in Lancefield!

Report by Fay Woodhouse

Reportedly after the concert many round the town were saying how much they enjoyed it and what a wonderful afternoon it was. The Rev. Bill Carroll enjoyed it very much and declared it "most professional", praising the music team and saying that Faleiry must be one of the best conductors in the world. One man was seen crying during Hafan Gobaith he was so moved by the song! Other comments included:

Most enjoyable
Stirred our hearts
We Scots loved the inclusion of the piper
Impressed by the variety
As the organisers we were very pleased with how everything went and with the end result.

One Minute's Silence

19th March 2015

On 19th March thirteen members of Vic Welsh provided the backing for One Minute's Silence, a song composed by Richard Gillard and sung by Tex Perkins with words spoken by Ron Barassi, as part of the commemorations of the First World War. The recording is now available on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXOsPjFlS7Q&sns=em

We can be seen and heard in the second half of the recording.

Essendon with Silvie Paladino

27th March 2015 at Lowther Hall

On 27th March 2015 the choir performed at Lowther Hall School for a Rotary East Keilor fundraiser sponsored by the local Bendigo Bank.

After a rousing entry, the audience was treated to a bracket of favourite tunes – Rachie, Morte Criste, Amazing Grace and Cwm Rhondda, where they enthusiastically joined in with the well-known chorus.

They were also happy to help out again with Ambrose Morgan’s humorous version of Hymns and Arias.

Local star Silvie Paladino then enchanted everybody with the popular You Raise Me Up and a stunning performance of Memories from Cats. She stayed on stage then to join the choir in You’ll Never Walk Alone from Carousel.

The first half closed out with sensitive renditions of Anfonaf Angel, an a capella version of Si Hei Lwli ‘Mabi and the soaring Pemulwuy.

What Would I Do Without My Music was followed by the sentimental and patriotic O Gymru, and then patrons were invited to sing along again during the World War One medley, along with reprises.

Silvie came back to showcase her beautiful voice on The Prayer followed by Something Wonderful from The King and I. Reminding everybody that she had debuted in Les Mis in 1989, she joined the choir in a medley of songs from that iconic show. Patrons were transported with Silvie on I Dreamed a Dream and the heart-wrenching On My Own and baritone Roger Bartlett backed this up with the poignant Bring Him Home.

The medley grew to its powerful final chorus to leave the entire hall sated with emotion and rewarding all the singers with sustained applause. It was a very good night for a very good cause.

Camberwell Funeral

10th April 2015 at Camberwell Uniting Church

On 10th April 2015 Victoria Welsh Male Choir participated in the funeral of a member's wife at Camberwell Uniting Church. We started by leading the congregation in The Day You Gave Us, Lord, Is Ended. Later in the service, as a tribute, the choir performed a bracket of three classic Welsh hymns - Love Divine (Blaenwern), Gwahoddiad and When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (Morte Criste); and we again led the congregation in the final hymn Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer (Cwm Rhondda).

Echuca

19th April 2015 at the Paramount Theatre: "Lovely mix" "Inspiring and soul-filling" "uplifting and touching voices" "No changes needed." "You can't improve on perfection"

On 19th April the choir was delighted to head to the very northern boundary of Victoria to present an afternoon concert at the well-appointed Paramount Theatre. Compère Tony Davies understood that local residents were disappointed a second bridge over the Murray had not been funded but invited them instead to join the choir on a south-north musical bridge between Echuca and Wales.

After the stirring Gwŷr Harlech, the pace was sustained with the opening bracket of Rachie, Morte Criste, Amazing Grace and Cwm Rhondda where the capacity audience had a chance to join in with the rousing choruses.

Ambrose Morgan kept spirits up by recounting an amusing story with Hymns and Arias before the choir sang the beautiful love song Ar Lan Y Môr, followed by the stunning Australian-penned Pemulwuy.

The mood changed as we remembered the experiences of WW1 at this poignant time of year. Bendigo bass Rob Hopman, accompanying himself on guitar, sang the heart-aching Scots of the Riverina. Continuing the theme, Bob Ash sang unaccompanied the acerbic And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda which visibly affected everyone in the theatre. Then we launched in to a medley of WW1 songs with the audience happy to join in with the familiar words.

The second half launched with the self-affirming What Would I Do Without My Music followed by the lilting Anfonaf Angel and the uplifting Hafan Gobaith and the fiercely patriotic O Gymru.

Bass-baritone Roger Bartlett captivated the audience with the love song You’re Still You, made famous by Josh Groban.

The final presentation was the popular Medley from Les Misérables with Roger soloing on I Dreamed A Dream and Bring Him Home. As the final optimistic cry echoed round
the theatre the palpable feeeling was that the musical bridge had been successfully and emotionally crossed during the afternoon.

There only remained a vote of thanks from local chaplain Alan Corby and an upstanding Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau to bring a very satisfying concert to an end.

Comments from the audience included:

Lovely mix of choir and soloists. Great singing - thank you.
Absolutely splendid! So pleased to see and hear a wonderful choir, wish I could more regularly. Music means a great deal, especially choir, orchestra, musicals and traditional styles. Yolanda
I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation. The end was especially warming and much appreciated for every song. Thanks for coming to Echuca.
It was fantastic. You can't improve on perfection. Diolch!!! Gwyneth
Inspiring and soul-filling, great to hear men's voices, especially Welsh. Great individual items and story telling through song - come back again. Ruth
Thank you all for an inspiring, uplifting afternoon. God bless. Mary
Last year we travelled from Deniliquin to Kyabram. This year to Echuca. Next year four of us will be there. Sensational. Sally-Ann
A great concert thank you. Impressed by the clear diction and fantastic memory of all the choir. The soloists all added something special too.
Fab! Great, we loved it. No changes needed. Sandy T (member of Sing Aust Deniliquin)
Thank you for a great afternoon. Thoroughly enjoyed your performance. Judy
Absolutely wonderful. Keep up your so uplifting and touching voices. Amen. Vicki
It was great music. Good job by compere and the solo artists. Rob
Wow! Fantastic! Thank you, come again. Beryl
Lovely singing. Thank you. Grace and John
Extraordinary, excellent. Susan
Loved it, loved it and loved it. Diolch yn fawr. Anna
It was a brilliant concert. You all seemed to enjoy what you do so much, the audience can't help but catch the enthusiasm. Well done!! Pam
Fantastic! So many powerful voices. They blended so well and in unison. Great to listen to. Lola
Excellent. Thank you. Aileen
Beautiful, heart lifting, emotional. Wonderful choice of music. Rosemary
Once again a wonderful afternoon of beautiful music. Thank you. Beth

Box Hill - Côr Bach

26th April 2015 at Bedford Heights Estate

Residents of this eastern suburbs retirement village packed out the meeting hall for this Sunday afternoon concert on 26th April.

The musical program was much the same as for the previous week’s Echuca concert, with Ambrose Morgan reprising Hymns and Arias, Rob Hopman with the poignant Scots of the Riverina and versatile compère Bob Ash reducing audience and choristers alike to respectful contemplation with the very topical And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda.

In the second half the nostalgic Welsh tune Yfory (Tomorrow) chronologically turned the tables on the emotional Ar Lan Y Môr and O Gymru.

This was followed by John Hales and Geoff Serpell entertaining patrons with the melodramatic and amusing Gendarmes’ Duet. Côr Bach then premièred the defiant Frank Sinatra song My Way – wearing our black shirts and red ties might have unintentionally reminded popular music lovers of a mafia connection but Faleiry said ‘the record shows’ we were actually the Tafia!

The finale was the show stopping Les Mis medley complete with mellifluous solos by Roger Bartlett.

The intimate nature of the hall contributed to a unique musical occasion, complete with audience participation and a host of happy faces.

Ballarat Friends Night

29th May 2015 at the Steiner School

On Friday 29th May 2015 we held a Friends' Night for potential new members of the recently-established Ballarat branch of Victoria Welsh Choir.

Vale Owen Bedford

3rd June 2015 at Lilydale Memorial Park

On 3rd June at Lilydale Memorial Park a large contingent of choristers joined family and friends to farewell Life Member second tenor Owen Bedford (1932-2015).

The service opened with the choir singing Gwahoddiad (Invitation).

Beautiful and heartfelt eulogies came from his two daughters Diane and Denise and from granddaughter Samantha.

Owen (on right of picture) was a multi-talented man who designed and constructed the choir’s stage equipment, which is still in continual use. It serves as an additional memorial to a fine chorister and a real gentleman.

The final hymn was Calon Lân (A Pure Heart).

National Celtic Festival

6th and 7th June 2015 at Portarlington

The choir, for the second year running, performed at the National Celtic Festival at Port Arlington over the Queen’s Birthday weekend.

The first concert was at St John’s Church where an early crowd was invited to warm up with the choir, which they did most happily. The church soon filled up and a partition was opened to allow the overflow to be seated for the concert. During the hour allotted, a wide variety of numbers were performed. Stephen Pepper taught the willing audience a famous Welsh word with a good deal of laughter. Bob Ash sang the thought-provoking Working Man and the Celtic Medley consisted of Graeme Sanderson with the Cornish tune Trelawny, Roger Bartlett with the Northern Irish Carrickfergus, Alex van Mens with the Scottish Highland Cathedral and Drew Hopkins with the Irish Spanish Lady, complete with enthusiastic clapping and whacking by patrons and choir alike.

The finale was our special arrangement of Waltzing Matilda performed by Drew and Geoff Serpell to great acclaim.

On the Sunday morning we set up in the larger venue of Parks Hall to perform a similar program, again starting with warming up the audience along with the choristers. In between a range of full choral pieces, some different soloists performed– Barry McMahon sang the Scottish Wild Mountain Thyme and Ken Simpson featured on Highland Cathedral. Stephen Lynn and Stephen Pepper duetted on the Welsh number All Through The Night (Ar Hyd Y Nos). The concert finished with Waltzing Matilda starring Roger and Bob Ash.

In the afternoon we were back at St John’s for a different audience with a similar program but a different combination of soloists. Alex and Ken shared duties on Highland Cathedral and Bob and Roger led the amazing Waltzing Matilda at the end to a standing ovation for them and the choir.
Compèring duties for the weekend were shared by Drew Hopkins and Tony Davies with humorous but informative sections about Welsh hymns by John Evans.

It was indeed a great pleasure to perform in front of great audiences over the weekend – all were very appreciative of VicWelsh’s distinctive mixture of passion, musicality, warmth and humour.

Vale Charlie Phillips

22nd September 2015

On 22 September a large number of fellow choristers from Melbourne and Bendigo gathered to farewell their very well respected colleague Charlie Phillips (12 February 1922 – 11 September 2015).

We learned that Charlie and his brother journeyed to Melbourne every weekend in their younger days for formal voice training. They were a successful duo and could have made a reasonable living in the entertainment industry. Charlie, however, thought the travelling would have been too disruptive to family life and, instead, worked as a carpenter and plasterer where his workmanship was always in demand.

The early voice training was evident to choristers and patrons alike in all the years Charlie sang with us. Audiences gasped with astonishment and admiration every time the diminutive and frail-looking Charlie moved to centre stage. What came out of his frame was an incredibly rich bass-baritone voice, always pitch-perfect and full of controlled passion.

At the service, we listened once again to his voice, and his humour, with I’se Weary of Waitin’. Later we were treated to his renditions of Old Man River, In the Depths of the Temple and If I Can Help Somebody, which equated so well with Charlie’s lifelong credo.

Under the direction of Faleiry and accompanied by Lorna, two dozen choristers assembled and sang Gwahoddiad followed by Working Man with baritone Bob Ash as soloist, reprising and paying homage to one of Charlie’s favourites.

Finally, as befitted a fine Christian gentleman with a great sense of humility as well as humour, we left the chapel to Charlie’s recording of Goin’ Home.

Shepparton

26th September 2015 at Eastbank Centre: "it's like I have died and gone to heaven" "stirs your heart" "giving me goose bumps" "uplifting singing" "remarkable harmony" "Musical director - a delight"

This concert on 26th September was specifically organised as a musical tribute to the ANZACS at the Riverlinks Eastbank theatre in Shepparton.

After an opening bracket of Welsh favourites, guest artist Sarah Lynn enchanted the audience with Come By the Hills and As If We Never Said Goodbye. She then joined the choir in Benedictus.

Compere Bob Ash launched into the WW1 bracket with the sobering And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda. In contrast, 90-year-old baritone Bill Denholm amused the ‘troops’ with I Hate Getting Up In The Morning and then the choir and audience ran through some well-known songs from that era.

Rob Hopman accompanied himself on guitar in the haunting tale of The Scotts of the Riverina.

The second half included a WW2 set with Carrickfergus (solo by Roger Bartlett), Wild Mountain Thyme (Barry McMahon) and Spanish Lady (Drew Hopkins with flamenco dance by the versatile Sarah). Graeme Sanderson finished the bracket with a stirring and patriotic There’ll Always Be Australia.

Sarah also sang by herself in the wistful Lili Marlene and a spirited Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy. She joined the choir in Guardian Angel, A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, White Cliffs of Dover and You’ll Never Walk Alone.

During the concert the audience was able to watch a continuously changing photographic show on both sides of the stage. With the choir’s and the soloists’ specially chosen songs, it was a particularly effective themed concert, much appreciated by all, as can be read in these comments:

You were all in excellent form - remarkable harmony throughout. Envied the pianist and your inspiring conductor!! Sarah is a STAR - A wonderful afternoon. Arthur and Lurline
Enjoyed every minute. Beautiful choir - Sarah has a magnificent voice. Would love to see her dance! Musical director - a delight. Please come again. Jan
I saw them at St Augustine's Church last time they came and was so happy to have them come back again - it's like I have died and gone to heaven. Thank you all so much. Irene
Thoroughly enjoyed the singers and the lovely program.
Excellent show - would love you to come back. Betty
Very enjoyable and friendly.
Absolute pleasure to hear the rich blend of the men's voices. Wonderful selection of songs. A lovely afternoon's entertainment. Dinah
Wonderful performance - thoroughly enjoyable and moving. The humour of the MC added to the entertainment.
Bringing back my childhood when my mother was ill and I went to Wales. Anne and Jean
Loved the selection.
Great concert. Astrid
Conductor good. Singer good. Julia
Most enjoyable. We are grateful to you all for coming this far away from home. Do you ever perform for schools? It would be a good way to introduce kids to good choral music. Jill
Most enjoyable - love the laconic laid-back manner of your compère - Bob Ash. Your musical director Faleiry is very inclusive -and well, the choir? Just marvellous - harmony and volume - stirs your heart. Gail
Fantastic concert. The singing is giving me goose bumps - beautiful melodies and a great master of ceremonies. Mary
Very very enjoyable. Margaret
Excellent presentation - uplifting singing and well rehearsed - well done. Enjoyed soloist and compère fun! Thank you for lovely music and memories. Elizabeth
Excellent concert. MC is entertaining. Madeline
A lovely concert. The female soloist was delightful. Some items were very moving. Good to have audience involvement. Helen
A great experience. Well worth hearing. I grew up with the songs being sung. Pat
Thoroughly enjoying it. Val
It is a wonderful concert. We have Welsh ancestors and love to hear Welsh songs sung by a Welsh choir. Thank you for coming to Shepparton. Margaret
Excellent - beautiful voices and music choices. Please come back to Shep and please bring Sarah too - gorgeous voice. Lynette
Absolutely wonderful afternoon's entertainment - any music at any time would be perfect.
Wonderful singing and all round production. Enjoyed the light and shade. Thank you.

Bendigo with Marina Prior

27th September 2015

Such was the dual draw of Victoria Welsh Choir and Marina Prior that the start time was delayed as the audience of nearly 1000 filed in and found their seats at the architectural wonder that is the Ulumbarra Theatre.

Men of Harlech rang out lustily, fuelled no doubt by the overnight defeat of the 'nasty English' by the Wales rugby team! After a rousing Morte Criste, more patriotism was evident in the more modern O Gymru followed by the old favourite Cwm Rhondda.

The first lady of musical theatre Marina Prior then came on to offer some beautifully sung numbers from the shows. Memory was followed by Someone to Watch Over Me and then I Dreamed a Dream from Les Mis. The capacity audience was entranced and thrilled by her sheer presence. Marina then took the solo part in You'll Never Walk Alone backed by the choir.

Next, one of the Bendigo choristers Nigel McGuckian played an exquisite flute solo with the choir on Sanctus. The heartfelt What Would I Do Without My Music and the totemic Battle Hymn of the Republic finished off the first half in great fashion.

After interval, patrons were treated to Debussy's Le Plus Que Lente played by Kaitlin White, the local winner of a prize offered by the Rotary Club of South Bendigo.

The choir then launched into a "Celtic Kaleidoscope", starting with Anthem Geltaidd, a modern patriotic number. Chorister Roger Bartlett then featured on the lilting Carrickfergus followed by Barry McMahon on Wild Mountain Thyme, both soloists receiving huge applause. The choir then came together to sing a cappella the lullaby Si Hei Lwli 'Mabi, which showed off the incredible acoustics of the theatre. Hard-working and versatile compère Drew Hopkins then gave everybody a rollicking Spanish Lady, complete with sinuous flamenco dancing by Sarah Lynn and an inadvertent water glass upset by the would-be matador, all enjoyed tremendously by the assembly.

The beautiful Marina then came back with more musical favourites - Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Music of the Night and that paean to lost relationships, Time to Say Goodbye. Her soaring voice and her engagement with the capacity audience showed her that Bendigo people would welcome her back anytime.

Nigel came back with his flute and accompanied tenor Rushan Hewawasam and the choir on the English version of Guardian Angel which we had heard Bryn Terfel sing in 2012 and which has subsequently become a firm favourite with choristers.

The final bracket was a tribute to the ANZACs in both World Wars - the audience sang along with the choir on some of them and Marina joined in with the nostalgic The White Cliffs of Dover. With Pack Up Your Troubles and the final exhortation to Smile, Smile, Smile, the Ulumbarra theatre did just that. As the whole audience stood for the Welsh National Anthem, passion and pride and a wonderful afternoon's musical enjoyment came to a fitting finale.

Ballarat with David Hobson

17th October 2015 at the Wendouree Performing Arts Centre: "skill and professionalism" "such a good show" " I let the music transport me" "Could have listened all night" "David is a real Ballarat treasure" " What an amazing, beautiful, musical and emotional night. We were rapt!"

The choir was delighted once again to be singing with Ballarat’s favourite son, David Hobson on 17 October at the Wendouree Performing Arts Centre. Some 500 people came to be entertained by David and by the choir.

The opening bracket kicked off with Men of Harlech in Welsh, the old favourite hymn Morte Criste, the modern patriotic song O Gymru and the rousing Battle Hymn of the Republic, with the enthusiastic audience joining in with the final choruses.

Thoroughly warmed up, they welcomed David on to the stage with great applause before he dazzled all with his wonderfully wide repertoire. Starting off with the fiery Mattinata by Ruggiero Leoncavallo, written for Caruso, his beautiful tenor voice enhanced the intricacies of Benjamin Britten's arrangements of British folk songs, made up of The Salley Gardens, The Ash Grove, O Waly Waly, and Oliver Cromwell.

The choir then joined him as backing to his lullaby Suo Gân before Faleiry positioned herself at the harp to accompany him on classic folk song Dafydd Y Garreg Wen.

The four-part harmonies of What Would I Do Without My Music gave many patrons goose-bumps, as reported later.

There followed a choral WW1 Medley including David’s beautiful rendition of Roses of Picardy. The audience willingly sang along to the choruses and finished the first half with Smile, Smile, Smile.

To open the second half David surprised all his fans by flamboyantly leaping straight on to the piano to mock-seriously tell the sad tale of Little Miss Muffet - with acknowledgements to Dudley Moore, Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears. He then thrilled the audience with his sheer versatility in presenting first an Irish folk-song - The Maid of Culmore (his own arrangement) and then Granada by Agustin Lara, accompanied by some nifty choreography. Drawing on his recent Broadway to La Scala concerts, David entranced everybody with a finely modulated rendition of Bring Him Home from Les Misérables.

Melanie Ash’s bell-like soprano voice was magnificent as the soloist in Sanctus and then the choir showed how they could sing, not only without music but also without accompaniment in Si Hei Lwli ‘Mabi. Then it was time to showcase another soloist, this time the melodious baritone of Roger Bartlett in Guardian Angel, to great acclaim from the packed theatre.

The choir launched into Anthem Geltaidd before David joined them in the Celtic medley with exemplary diction and panache in Shenandoah, Danny Boy, a thumping Wild Mountain Thyme, All Through The Night and a very spirited Spanish Lady with David on a retuned flamenco guitar and a few fancy moves, harking back to his Dancing With The Stars days.

Throughout the concert David had been chatting with the audience, many of who knew him personally, of course. But such is his popularity the concert also attracted quite a few people from other parts of Victoria including many from Melbourne. One couple even came over from Adelaide.

Another Welsh favourite Cwm Rhondda saw David once again joining with the choir for a brilliant finale with patrons joining in with the final strains of Bread of Heaven just like our very own rugby crowd.

Off David went, but his devoted audience had not heard enough. Thankfully he reappeared and, with the choir, reprised the song which he sings at Carols by Candlelight every year, the wonderful Holy City.

As the final soaring lines echoed out, the theatre responded as one and rose to their feet in thunderous acclamation for a totally absorbing and wonderful evening of musicianship. David was equally generous in his inclusive appreciation of the superb music team of Faleiry and Lorna.

Audience feedback included:

What an amazing, beautiful, musical and emotional night. We were rapt! Rosie
A wonderful night’s entertainment from David Hobson and the choir.
More harp playing please. It was wonderful that David made himself so available to the audience.
My admiration of the skill and professionalism of your wonderful conductor and pianist; Drew Hopkins is pretty good too.
This was the best concert yet. We really enjoy hearing David sing along with the choir. Conductress is excellent too.
Thank you so much for such an enjoyable evening. Thanks for all the work you do to deliver such a good show.
A most joyful evening of song and music. Rave reviews always for David. Wonderful pianist and director. The choir give so much, they were so brilliant. Loved every minute.
We came from Pontypridd in 1956. I always took my parents to see the choir. My Dad was a lovely tenor singer himself. He passed away at 81. Mum, my brother and myself attended the concert. We all felt Dad was with us there.
I thoroughly enjoyed the concert. The choice of music very “audience friendly.” I closed my eyes a few times and let the music transport me. The camaraderie between the choir and David and bits of laughter was a joy.
I really enjoyed the show – excellent.
The first concert we attended in Wesley Church, we talked to Faleiry after, I said never seen a woman before have control over so many men, she just laughed. At least you can understand what they’re singing. Not like today’s singers who just yell.
We just loved it . Could have listened all night. Loved the sing-along.
I am in the U3A choir so appreciate the work that goes into a performance.
Fabulous concert!!!!
David H great as usual.
Would like more programs in west of Melbourne. I won the hamper – very good, many thanks.
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and left feeling uplifted. Many thanks and all the best. Wendy
Loved pianist and conductor. Important for involvement of audience. Enjoyed David very much.
A thoroughly enjoyable evening. The choir looked amazing and sounded beautiful. David is a real Ballarat treasure. I hope they all return sooner rather than later.Excellent all round. Loved the Guardian Angel choir member’s voice. Well done.
An extremely entertaining evening. Loved seeing the choir members having fun.
A very intimate concert. Great audience interaction. A really “feel good” event. Loved the harmonies! Loved the harp and the soprano – can’t forget the baritone! All kept the same high standard.
Always good concert when you wish it had gone on longer. Excellent performance.
The choir was very good but the highlight was David. He added some fun into the program and has a superb tenor voice.
Fantastic evening. Balance of music was lovely – some brought tears to my eyes. A truly memorable evening.
What a lovely night. I bought the tickets for my Father-in–Law for Father’s Day and took my Mum too. It was lovely to hear the men's voices. It was stunning. The shared love of music by all the men from all walks of life was amazing. David Hobson was just a bonus. A fantastic night.
My Grand-daughter and I were thrilled with the concert. We know David of course but the whole concert was a wonderful “feast of music”. Congratulations to everyone involved including the beautiful pianist. My late husband was a musician and came from a Welsh background.
It was all very enjoyable. The relaxed, informal style was very good and I think the audience felt part of the performance. Music choice was good too.

Cranbourne - Côr Bach

25th October 2015 at St John's Anglican Church: "Beautiful harmonising and so evocative" "spine tingling" "most smoothing" "Words couldn't describe the beautiful music" "soloists showed joy and feeling in all they sang"

On 25th October the choir was pleased to present an afternoon concert in Cranbourne at St John's Anglican Church, whose congregation includes two of our own choristers.

The opening bracket comprised traditional hymns like Gwŷr Harlech, Rachie, Morte Criste, Gwahoddiad and Cwm Rhondda with the very musical audience joining in with the chorus.

Despite Wales losing out at the Rugby World Cup, Ambrose Morgan entertained everybody with a humorous tale of woe on the rugby theme.

Despite the mounting heat, the choir successfully delivered the a capella Myfanwy on pitch, followed by the carefree Dashenka complete with sound effects by John Evans.

The medley from Les Mis completed the first half, with wonderfully acclaimed solos by Rushan Hewawasam and Roger Bartlett.

The glorious harmonies of What Would I Do Without My Music opened the second half followed by Guardian Angel with a sensitive tenor solo by Rushan. The patriotic O Gymru then prefaced the iconic Battle Hymn of the Republic, where the audience were very happy to participate in the final choruses..

Rushan and Drew Hopkins combined beautifully on Isle of Hope, Isle of Dreams before the whole choir launched into a Celtic medley. Another patriotic song Anthem Geltaidd was followed by Roger in the lilting Carrickfergus, Barry McMahon in Wild Mountain Thyme, the very soft Si Hei Lwli ‘Mabi and then Drew in the spirited Spanish Lady. All soloists received heartfelt applause, and then Roger and Geoff Serpell took everybody through the story of Waltzing Matilda segueing into the Welsh National Anthem with a very enthusiastic audience all up on their feet.

The great afternoon’s musical experience for choir and patrons alike gave way to a fitting end with Eli Jenkins’ Prayer and a fainting tenor, overcome by the relentless heat and by the emotion of the Anthem.

Postscript: The chorister was ably attended to by the choir’s very competent first-aid officer and by a team of ambos. After an overnight stay for observations he has recovered well albeit with a bruised back. Other choristers and patrons were suitably revived by a generous afternoon tea in the old church. Thanks to all involved in both areas of recovery.

Audience comments included:

Wonderful experience - made me think of my Welsh ancestry. Beautiful harmonising and so evocative. Malcolm/Stephanie
Beautiful harmony - delight to attend this concert. Patricia
Many spine tingling moments, beautiful, thank you.
It's great to listen to people who really know how to sing and understand the words. Good strong voices, pleasure to hear them sing. June
Loved every minute of it. Keep going - congratulations. Beryl
Just absolutely fabulous. Words couldn't describe the beautiful music, the different part singing, from the soloists to the full choir. Just wonderful! Looking forward to your next concert. Marina
Very enjoyable concert. Thelma
Just wonderful - I have heard you perform before. Mabel
A brilliant performance with soloists who showed joy and feeling in all they sang. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Loved the harmony.
I always like the Welsh choir.
Very enjoyable listening to the wonderful harmonies. The unaccompanied singing is a true test of a choir - it was fantastic. Love songs in Welsh - you can see the enjoyment on the men's faces. Linda
Olé as usual. Yvonne
Beautiful, most smoothing. Thank you. Edna
I always enjoy the VW Male Choir. I have heard them on a number of occasions. Dorothy
Thank you all for singing beautifully in the heat yesterday 25 Oct in Cranbourne, hope all is okay, we all struggled with the heat. Many thanks. Sandra

With Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir

1st November 2015 at St Bernard's, Belmont: " heavenly musical moments" "great sound with a bit of 'Hwyl'” "What a treat" "A great program perfectly executed" "such a good range of voices"

We were special guests of the Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir at a Sunday afternoon concert on 1st November. Seasonally entitled A Prelude to Summer, the occasion started with both choirs on stage singing the Australian National Anthem.

VicWelsh then roused the audience with the traditional Gwŷr Harlech before answering the question What Would I Do Without My Music in exemplary four-part harmony. Morte Criste was followed by O Gymru and Battle Hymn of the Republic complete with piccolo played by Bendigo chorister Nigel McGuckian and reinforced by spirited chorus singing by the very eager audience.

Introduced by Geelong compère John Stubbings, pianist Selmo Carreira and his violinist wife Rita Sousa then entertained the church with delicately played pieces from France and Romania.

Geelong Ladies came back and entranced the assembly with Those Were the Days, What’ll I Do, You Raise Me Up (violin intro by Rita), O Mio Babbino and the rugby reminder World In Union. Vic Welsh then joined them, under Jeanette John’s baton, to sing the superb Benedictus arranged by the Welsh composer Robat Arwyn.

The ladies were back after the intermission and offered a very varied Celtic medley with My Little Welsh Home (violin solo by Rita), The Gypsy Rover, Ye Banks and Braes, Scarborough Fair and the old favourite Calon Lân.

Rita and Selmo returned and combined beautifully, delighting everyone with some familiar themes from the movies.

VicWelsh then remounted the stage ready to present its own Celtic medley. When compère Tony Davies mentioned the second number Carrickfergus, a lady in the audience jumped up to excitedly announce that that was her birthplace. After the first item, Anthem Geltaidd, with a lovely flute solo by Nigel, Faleiry graciously invited the Irish lady to the microphone, where she was enveloped by the choir’s heart-throb Roger Bartlett, who very professionally managed the animated lady as well as "her" song. She for her part was rather overwhelmed by the nostalgia (she told us later she had left the place when she was ten and had become a nun) and the whole church gave Roger a very well deserved acclamation. Fortuitously, no thyme lords or ladies from Scotland popped up for the next song – Wild Mountain Thyme sung by the splendid bass Barry McMahon.

After this excitement, the choir brought the temperature down with a wonderful example of a capella singing with Si Hei Lwli ‘Mabi. Then we were off again with the lively Spanish Lady led by the second heart-throb (or was that the third?) Drew Hopkins who showed off his deft flamenco footwork and toreador’s sharp moves. Extra flavour was supplied by castanet-playing Alex van Mens and more-or-less co-ordinated "choirography". Olé indeed.

To finish on a more salubrious note, the ladies returned to combine in the very poignant Guardian Angel as a fitting finale. The very musically aware audience had been transported for the afternoon across many lands and genres, found out where Carrickfergus was and had a great time, as reflected in sustained and heartfelt applause for both choirs, guest artists, soloists, both superb accompanists and the musical directors who had brought it all together – Jeanette John and Faleiry Koczkar.

These two Welsh women then came together on the rostrum and led the upstanding assembly with the only song possible – Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.

Comments from members of the audience included:

Some heavenly musical moments with the Welsh Ladies Choir. Carrickfergus was a standout.
A very good afternoon’s entertainment.
Liked the combined choirs – great sound with a bit of “Hwyl”
Lovely and very much enjoyed. Thank you. Annthea.
Thoroughly enjoyed it. Viv.
What a treat. Two excellent choirs and we really enjoyed the two combined songs. But for us the highlight was the spontaneous gesture to get the nun who had been born in Carrickfergus on to the stage for that song. It obviously made her day.
A wonderful afternoon's entertainment ! A great program perfectly executed. Hope you are back in Geelong soon. Pat.
So wonderful to hear such a good range of voices. Thanks so much for the lovely entertainment. Sue.

Remembrance Day

8th November 2015 at Springvale War Cemetery

On 8th November 2015 Victoria Welsh Choir led the singing at the Remembrance Day Service at the Springvale War Cemetery for the ninth time since 2004.

Performances in 2014

Back to History

Vic Welsh Performances in 2015

Celebrating the Welsh, Irish and Scottish cultures in song, humour and passion

28th February 2015

This was followed by the beautifully modulated soprano voice of Rhonda Yates (above in blue) as she soloed on Diolch I’r Iôr with the choir to great acclaim.

Tenor David Scott from Wales then gave the audience an unexpected treat with a sensitive rendition of If With All Your Hearts from Elijah by Mendelssohn.

Faleiry returned to conduct Gounod’s Sanctus with a pitch-perfect solo by soprano Melinda Ash (left) which the audience loved.

Bass Graeme Sanderson represented the Cornish with a wonderfully modulated and dramatic version of Trelawny with the choir coming in with the chorus.

There only remained for Geraint and Angela to lead the upstanding assembly in the anthem Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.

Comments from the audience included:

The two pianists were exceptional. Geraint was entertaining, he could extract the best out of the choir.
Congratulations to the organiser for a job well done. I hope to see the choir again next year.
As someone not of Welsh origins I particularly enjoy the more familiar songs,including Irish & Scottish.
All good. A great night.
The 2015 program was excellent in content and performance.
Greatly enjoyed all aspects of tonight’s performance.
Look forward to future visits from Wales and future concerts.
I am happy with either a Welsh theme or combined as long as I can hear those wonderful voices. Our heritage is Cornish and Scottish and I love the blend of voices in the male choir. When the choir sings it is music to my soul! Thank you.
I would like to make special mention of Lorna Ogilvie & thank her for the beautiful, sympathetic and talented piano accompanying.
Personally I really enjoy the Welsh language items but the other items provide a light enjoyable relief especially for Scots and Irish. Lovely to have Cornwall represented.
Congratulations and thank you for a spectacularly successful evening. The choice of songs was excellent and the arrangement of the program was excellent too. The quality of the singers and dancers was brilliant.
Always find concerts rousing, well presented . Excellent support artists.
Always a wonderful, friendly musical experience.
A wonderful evening, lifted our spirit.
I loved the evening and will be in touch with my friends again to go to another concert.
Enjoyed the M.C. and his insight to the music and the performers.
I’ve never been to a concert of the choir before and was very impressed, thank you.
My Dad was the best!
Loved the choir and soloists.
Overall an excellent presentation.
Enjoyed the variety – the choir and the soloists were amazing. Loved the Irish dancers and the two female singers. I’m looking forward to the October concert. Many thanks to all.
The standard of the choral music and all the other items was outstanding – as always! Just wish I could go to one of these events every other week… impossible of course but that’s how enjoyable they are. Thank you choir and especially thank you to all those behind the scenes working so tirelessly.

And from one of our Welsh visitors:

WOW! What an honour to visit Melbourne and sing with the Victoria Welsh Male choir, all 3 of us were astounded at the at the professionalism of your performance, David Scott, Dave Watts and myself Mel Evans enjoyed our visit so much and the hospitality (Thanks so much, Bill). The long flight from Wales was worth every minute.

Cymanfa Ganu

Wedding - Côr Bach

The bride and groom said they were thrilled by the quality of our singing and the contribution it made to their special day, as were the bride's parents.

Lancefield - Côr Bach

Singing in the Ranges

Report by Fay Woodhouse

Most enjoyable
Stirred our hearts
We Scots loved the inclusion of the piper
Impressed by the variety
As the organisers we were very pleased with how everything went and with the end result.

One Minute's Silence

19th March 2015

We can be seen and heard in the second half of the recording.

Essendon with Silvie Paladino

27th March 2015 at Lowther Hall

Camberwell Funeral

10th April 2015 at Camberwell Uniting Church

Echuca

19th April 2015 at the Paramount Theatre: "Lovely mix" "Inspiring and soul-filling" "uplifting and touching voices" "No changes needed." "You can't improve on perfection"

Comments from the audience included:

Lovely mix of choir and soloists. Great singing - thank you.
Absolutely splendid! So pleased to see and hear a wonderful choir, wish I could more regularly. Music means a great deal, especially choir, orchestra, musicals and traditional styles. Yolanda
I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation. The end was especially warming and much appreciated for every song. Thanks for coming to Echuca.
It was fantastic. You can't improve on perfection. Diolch!!! Gwyneth
Inspiring and soul-filling, great to hear men's voices, especially Welsh. Great individual items and story telling through song - come back again. Ruth
Thank you all for an inspiring, uplifting afternoon. God bless. Mary
Last year we travelled from Deniliquin to Kyabram. This year to Echuca. Next year four of us will be there. Sensational. Sally-Ann
A great concert thank you. Impressed by the clear diction and fantastic memory of all the choir. The soloists all added something special too.
Fab! Great, we loved it. No changes needed. Sandy T (member of Sing Aust Deniliquin)
Thank you for a great afternoon. Thoroughly enjoyed your performance. Judy
Absolutely wonderful. Keep up your so uplifting and touching voices. Amen. Vicki
It was great music. Good job by compere and the solo artists. Rob
Wow! Fantastic! Thank you, come again. Beryl
Lovely singing. Thank you. Grace and John
Extraordinary, excellent. Susan
Loved it, loved it and loved it. Diolch yn fawr. Anna
It was a brilliant concert. You all seemed to enjoy what you do so much, the audience can't help but catch the enthusiasm. Well done!! Pam
Fantastic! So many powerful voices. They blended so well and in unison. Great to listen to. Lola
Excellent. Thank you. Aileen
Beautiful, heart lifting, emotional. Wonderful choice of music. Rosemary
Once again a wonderful afternoon of beautiful music. Thank you. Beth

Box Hill - Côr Bach

26th April 2015 at Bedford Heights Estate

Residents of this eastern suburbs retirement village packed out the meeting hall for this Sunday afternoon concert on 26th April.

Vale Owen Bedford

3rd June 2015 at Lilydale Memorial Park

On 3rd June at Lilydale Memorial Park a large contingent of choristers joined family and friends to farewell Life Member second tenor Owen Bedford (1932-2015).

The service opened with the choir singing Gwahoddiad (Invitation).

Beautiful and heartfelt eulogies came from his two daughters Diane and Denise and from granddaughter Samantha.

The final hymn was Calon Lân (A Pure Heart).

National Celtic Festival

6th and 7th June 2015 at Portarlington

The choir, for the second year running, performed at the National Celtic Festival at Port Arlington over the Queen’s Birthday weekend.

Vale Charlie Phillips

22nd September 2015

On 22 September a large number of fellow choristers from Melbourne and Bendigo gathered to farewell their very well respected colleague Charlie Phillips (12 February 1922 – 11 September 2015).

Finally, as befitted a fine Christian gentleman with a great sense of humility as well as humour, we left the chapel to Charlie’s recording of Goin’ Home.

Shepparton

26th September 2015 at Eastbank Centre: "it's like I have died and gone to heaven" "stirs your heart" "giving me goose bumps" "uplifting singing" "remarkable harmony" "Musical director - a delight"

This concert on 26th September was specifically organised as a musical tribute to the ANZACS at the Riverlinks Eastbank theatre in Shepparton.

After an opening bracket of Welsh favourites, guest artist Sarah Lynn enchanted the audience with Come By the Hills and As If We Never Said Goodbye. She then joined the choir in Benedictus.

You were all in excellent form - remarkable harmony throughout. Envied the pianist and your inspiring conductor!! Sarah is a STAR - A wonderful afternoon. Arthur and Lurline
Enjoyed every minute. Beautiful choir - Sarah has a magnificent voice. Would love to see her dance! Musical director - a delight. Please come again. Jan
I saw them at St Augustine's Church last time they came and was so happy to have them come back again - it's like I have died and gone to heaven. Thank you all so much. Irene
Thoroughly enjoyed the singers and the lovely program.
Excellent show - would love you to come back. Betty
Very enjoyable and friendly.
Absolute pleasure to hear the rich blend of the men's voices. Wonderful selection of songs. A lovely afternoon's entertainment. Dinah
Wonderful performance - thoroughly enjoyable and moving. The humour of the MC added to the entertainment.
Bringing back my childhood when my mother was ill and I went to Wales. Anne and Jean
Loved the selection.
Great concert. Astrid
Conductor good. Singer good. Julia
Most enjoyable. We are grateful to you all for coming this far away from home. Do you ever perform for schools? It would be a good way to introduce kids to good choral music. Jill
Most enjoyable - love the laconic laid-back manner of your compère - Bob Ash. Your musical director Faleiry is very inclusive -and well, the choir? Just marvellous - harmony and volume - stirs your heart. Gail
Fantastic concert. The singing is giving me goose bumps - beautiful melodies and a great master of ceremonies. Mary
Very very enjoyable. Margaret
Excellent presentation - uplifting singing and well rehearsed - well done. Enjoyed soloist and compère fun! Thank you for lovely music and memories. Elizabeth
Excellent concert. MC is entertaining. Madeline
A lovely concert. The female soloist was delightful. Some items were very moving. Good to have audience involvement. Helen
A great experience. Well worth hearing. I grew up with the songs being sung. Pat
Thoroughly enjoying it. Val
It is a wonderful concert. We have Welsh ancestors and love to hear Welsh songs sung by a Welsh choir. Thank you for coming to Shepparton. Margaret
Excellent - beautiful voices and music choices. Please come back to Shep and please bring Sarah too - gorgeous voice. Lynette
Absolutely wonderful afternoon's entertainment - any music at any time would be perfect.
Wonderful singing and all round production. Enjoyed the light and shade. Thank you.

Bendigo with Marina Prior

27th September 2015

After interval, patrons were treated to Debussy's Le Plus Que Lente played by Kaitlin White, the local winner of a prize offered by the Rotary Club of South Bendigo.

Ballarat with David Hobson

Audience feedback included:

What an amazing, beautiful, musical and emotional night. We were rapt! Rosie
A wonderful night’s entertainment from David Hobson and the choir.
More harp playing please. It was wonderful that David made himself so available to the audience.
My admiration of the skill and professionalism of your wonderful conductor and pianist; Drew Hopkins is pretty good too.
This was the best concert yet. We really enjoy hearing David sing along with the choir. Conductress is excellent too.
Thank you so much for such an enjoyable evening. Thanks for all the work you do to deliver such a good show.
A most joyful evening of song and music. Rave reviews always for David. Wonderful pianist and director. The choir give so much, they were so brilliant. Loved every minute.
We came from Pontypridd in 1956. I always took my parents to see the choir. My Dad was a lovely tenor singer himself. He passed away at 81. Mum, my brother and myself attended the concert. We all felt Dad was with us there.
I thoroughly enjoyed the concert. The choice of music very “audience friendly.” I closed my eyes a few times and let the music transport me. The camaraderie between the choir and David and bits of laughter was a joy.
I really enjoyed the show – excellent.
The first concert we attended in Wesley Church, we talked to Faleiry after, I said never seen a woman before have control over so many men, she just laughed. At least you can understand what they’re singing. Not like today’s singers who just yell.
We just loved it . Could have listened all night. Loved the sing-along.
I am in the U3A choir so appreciate the work that goes into a performance.
Fabulous concert!!!!
David H great as usual.
Would like more programs in west of Melbourne. I won the hamper – very good, many thanks.
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and left feeling uplifted. Many thanks and all the best. Wendy
Loved pianist and conductor. Important for involvement of audience. Enjoyed David very much.
A thoroughly enjoyable evening. The choir looked amazing and sounded beautiful. David is a real Ballarat treasure. I hope they all return sooner rather than later.Excellent all round. Loved the Guardian Angel choir member’s voice. Well done.
An extremely entertaining evening. Loved seeing the choir members having fun.
A very intimate concert. Great audience interaction. A really “feel good” event. Loved the harmonies! Loved the harp and the soprano – can’t forget the baritone! All kept the same high standard.
Always good concert when you wish it had gone on longer. Excellent performance.
The choir was very good but the highlight was David. He added some fun into the program and has a superb tenor voice.
Fantastic evening. Balance of music was lovely – some brought tears to my eyes. A truly memorable evening.
What a lovely night. I bought the tickets for my Father-in–Law for Father’s Day and took my Mum too. It was lovely to hear the men's voices. It was stunning. The shared love of music by all the men from all walks of life was amazing. David Hobson was just a bonus. A fantastic night.
My Grand-daughter and I were thrilled with the concert. We know David of course but the whole concert was a wonderful “feast of music”. Congratulations to everyone involved including the beautiful pianist. My late husband was a musician and came from a Welsh background.
It was all very enjoyable. The relaxed, informal style was very good and I think the audience felt part of the performance. Music choice was good too.

Cranbourne - Côr Bach

On 25th October the choir was pleased to present an afternoon concert in Cranbourne at St John's Anglican Church, whose congregation includes two of our own choristers.

The opening bracket comprised traditional hymns like Gwŷr Harlech, Rachie, Morte Criste, Gwahoddiad and Cwm Rhondda with the very musical audience joining in with the chorus.

Despite Wales losing out at the Rugby World Cup, Ambrose Morgan entertained everybody with a humorous tale of woe on the rugby theme.

Despite the mounting heat, the choir successfully delivered the a capella Myfanwy on pitch, followed by the carefree Dashenka complete with sound effects by John Evans.

The medley from Les Mis completed the first half, with wonderfully acclaimed solos by Rushan Hewawasam and Roger Bartlett.

Audience comments included:

Wonderful experience - made me think of my Welsh ancestry. Beautiful harmonising and so evocative. Malcolm/Stephanie
Beautiful harmony - delight to attend this concert. Patricia
Many spine tingling moments, beautiful, thank you.
It's great to listen to people who really know how to sing and understand the words. Good strong voices, pleasure to hear them sing. June
Loved every minute of it. Keep going - congratulations. Beryl
Just absolutely fabulous. Words couldn't describe the beautiful music, the different part singing, from the soloists to the full choir. Just wonderful! Looking forward to your next concert. Marina
Very enjoyable concert. Thelma
Just wonderful - I have heard you perform before. Mabel
A brilliant performance with soloists who showed joy and feeling in all they sang. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Loved the harmony.
I always like the Welsh choir.
Very enjoyable listening to the wonderful harmonies. The unaccompanied singing is a true test of a choir - it was fantastic. Love songs in Welsh - you can see the enjoyment on the men's faces. Linda
Olé as usual. Yvonne
Beautiful, most smoothing. Thank you. Edna
I always enjoy the VW Male Choir. I have heard them on a number of occasions. Dorothy
Thank you all for singing beautifully in the heat yesterday 25 Oct in Cranbourne, hope all is okay, we all struggled with the heat. Many thanks. Sandra

With Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir

1st November 2015 at St Bernard's, Belmont: " heavenly musical moments" "great sound with a bit of 'Hwyl'” "What a treat" "A great program perfectly executed" "such a good range of voices"

Comments from members of the audience included:

Some heavenly musical moments with the Welsh Ladies Choir. Carrickfergus was a standout.
A very good afternoon’s entertainment.
Liked the combined choirs – great sound with a bit of “Hwyl”
Lovely and very much enjoyed. Thank you. Annthea.
Thoroughly enjoyed it. Viv.
What a treat. Two excellent choirs and we really enjoyed the two combined songs. But for us the highlight was the spontaneous gesture to get the nun who had been born in Carrickfergus on to the stage for that song. It obviously made her day.
A wonderful afternoon's entertainment ! A great program perfectly executed. Hope you are back in Geelong soon. Pat.
So wonderful to hear such a good range of voices. Thanks so much for the lovely entertainment. Sue.