We were delighted to welcome Bob Chilcott, who has been called ‘a contemporary hero of British choral music’, to lead our 80th anniversary Singing Day on Saturday, 7 February, with around 100 singers from all over the region and beyond. Bob challenged and charmed us by turns as he took us through his beautiful setting of the Gloria and three of his delightful Aesop’s Fables. Our thanks go to Bob for a wonderful day, to our very own Mackenzie Paget, who was an impeccable accompanist throughout, and to all those visitors who joined us for the occasion.
We received many appreciative comments afterwards. Bob himself was good enough to write:
“What a fabulous day that was yesterday. Thank you to all of you for making it all so energised and fun. It was a special one!”
And here is a selection from participants:
“It was a particular delight to have Bob Chilcott leading us in his relaxed but efficient manner; his anecdotes added to the enjoyment of the experience. And what a great choice of music.”
“Your welcome was warm, the venue ideal and all the arrangements seemed to work like clockwork.”
“The soup lunch for charity was a great idea and the cake selection must have rivalled any in the country!”
“Yet another wonderful Singing Day, and this one particularly special, not only for the splendid Bob, but also for the warm welcome, generous hospitality and convivial atmosphere throughout… Am looking forward already to next year!”
“Bob Chilcott was an ideal choice to lead the singing. His calm demeanour drew out the best in the participants and helped prove the moral in Aesop’s fable, The North Wind and the Sun: ‘Persuasion is better than Force’!”
Details of our next Singing Day on 6th February 2027 will be published here as soon as available. Watch this space!
