St Edwards Blackburn

“The whole concert shone”
“Choir exudes warmth”
“Drama, emotion, fun”
“Something for all”

The choir rehearses here every Monday and Wednesday and so this concert, like the previous one in 2010, was both a thank you to the church and the neighbours as well as a fund-raiser for the church.

As usual we started off with a selection of Welsh favourites before presenting two numbers from musicals and two new tunes which we had sung as part of the Australasian contingent at the World Choir concert in London in early July. Soloists in the first half were both basses – Barry McMahon with Stout-Hearted Men and Graeme Sanderson with Working Man. The audience had already limbered up with some singing in the first bracket but they really came through with gusto on When The Saints Go Marching In.

After interval we tackled a very new song in the repertoire – the rousing Yr Utgorn (The Trumpet) followed by an a capella version of Myfanwy and the contrasting Anvil Chorus, complete with anvil and blacksmith.

Compère Drew Hopkins led a spirited Cherchez La Femme along with John Hales.  Having found the lady we stepped back into our youth with a 60s medley which again featured Drew on the automotive Little Deuce Coupe and Roger Bartlett on the lilting Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey.

Temporary pianist Patrice Marshall excelled in the difficult task of accompanying the choir in many numbers for only the second time, and the choir and audience alike showed their appreciation for all her hard work.

In the familiar atmosphere of our rehearsal hall, choristers and audience very much enjoyed the relaxed but wide-ranging concert and, as one lady said, “You have made a lot of people very happy this afternoon.”  

Other feedback follows:

What a delightful concert … so much variety but with some solid traditional numbers as well.  I love your props & how you showcase certain singers. These highlights made the whole concert shine!   Sue

Terrific concert.   I loved the mix of music – something for all.   Val

Excellent. The choir exudes warmth and obviously enjoys producing the music.   Val

A wonderful programme this afternoon. An excellent selection of items – drama, emotion, fun etc. Excellent harmony. Thank you!   Marion

The commentary and history given about each piece is fantastic, it makes the songs have more meaning.  Thank you!   Kerryn

Not enough words to say how great thou art! Wonderful +++   Pauline

The Victoria Welsh Choir are always top entertainment.  Jim C.

Once again a most enjoyable concert.  Graeme Sanderson sang a great solo – worthy of Jack Clarke.   Bruce

Wonderful selection, wonderful sound, thoroughly enjoyable. Good luck.   Claire, Seville 3139

Excellent concert. Brilliant choir and can’t wait till next year.   Shirley

I thoroughly enjoyed your beautiful singing. You should be very proud of your choir.   Brenda

Most enjoyable concert. Lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.   Bernadette

Excellent as usual.   Nita

So very enjoyable!   Liz

Wonderful. Thank you so much. Also heard the choir at the Essendon Baptist Concert.  Joan

A delight in our Community.  Will never forget the nights we have been your “groupies” – live two houses away!   Margaret