Fundraising success
A major fundraising effort in the spring, generously supported by many members, was topped by bass Gavin Mendham who, with his friend Ian Smallwood, completed a sponsored cycle from Wilmslow to John O’Groats, raising a total of £1,000 for the choir. Well done Gavin!
Ian and Gavin (right) at John O’Groats.
Summer concert and anniversary dinner
Music by composers Bob Chilcott, Eric Whitacre and Karl Jenkins featured in our 22 May concert at the Festival Hall, Alderley Edge, in which we were joined by soprano Georgina Murray and children from Cheadle Hulme Junior School chamber choir, plus a group of accomplished instrumentalists including our own Tom Pieczora on piano. It was a most enjoyable evening for performers and audience alike.
The same week, on 24 May, we celebrated together at our long-postponed 75th anniversary dinner on a lovely summer’s evening at the Deanwater Hotel in Woodford. It was a truly memorable evening, attended by members of the choir, former members, spouses, partners and friends.
In particular we were delighted to welcome Andrew and Richard Barnby, sons of the choir’s founder, Bertie Barnby, and their wives Ineke and Jane; former conductor, Peter Stallworthy and his wife Hilary; current conductor, Lloyd Buck and his wife Stephenie; and Stephen Reynolds, our recently retired accompanist.
During the evening, a celebration cake was cut by Carol Leather, Barbara Welton and Margaret Scott, all of whom sang with Bertie, and a presentation was made to Stephen in appreciation of his 20 years with the Choir. In conclusion, Andrew Barnby addressed everyone and raised a toast to the Barnby Choir – past, present and future!
A pictorial record of the evening is available to view here.
