Lancefield

Back again after more than four years, it was gratifying to see the hall once more filled with enthusiastic local supporters from the combined parishes of Lancefield and Romsey.

Following the Welsh National Anthem – Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau (Old Land of My Fathers), Echuca-based chorister and compère Garry Salisbury welcomed the audience and introduced the music team: Faleiry Koczkar, Rushan Hewawasam, and Lorna Ogilvie. He invited everyone to join in singing some of the well-loved choruses during the opening set, which featured the stirring Cwm Rhondda, the haunting Myfanwy, the heartfelt Calon Lân, and the resolute Gwŷr Harlech (Men of Harlech).

Local favourite David Allan brought a personal touch to the afternoon with four numbers, including John Denver’s Back Home Again, which had both choir and audience joining in with gusto.

The choir’s chaplain – and Romsey local – Rev. Tom Morgan paid tribute to his late school friend Laurie Thomson, who had famously recited Henry Lawson’s 120-line The Fire at Ross’s Farm from memory at the choir’s last appearance here in November 2018. This time, Tom delighted the audience with a dramatic reading of C. J. Dennis’ An Old Master before singing The Lord’s Prayer in the Luton Girls’ Choir arrangement – warmly received by all.

Solo performances included John White’s serene Pacem (Peace), Drew Hopkins’ powerful Diolch I’r Iôr (Thanks to the Lord), and Roger Bartlett’s evocative Gwinllan (A Vineyard).

Patron feedback included:

Very enjoyable

Very entertaining!

It was lovely to be reminded of home. I was born in Ffestiniog. I speak Welsh, it is my native tongue.

Enjoyed the harmony.

Excellent show. Thank you.

I enjoyed it so much… loved the music, the accompaniment, the conductors, the wonderful venue and more. You were not hard to find, right there at centre stage. I just don’t know how men of such senior age can stand for such long periods of time… you must have strong backs.