25 OCTOBER 2018

October 30, 2018

Dear All,

Great work once again. Although we won’t be starting on the more traditional carols until next month, can I suggest that any long standing altos, tenors and basses that have the 2017 carol booklets should look them out as this will save enormously on printing costs? Next week, as well as working on our programme for 22 November, we’ll be making a start on the Cherry Tree Carol, so you might like to follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYaFGSG_x80

JOAN BAEZ ~ The Cherry Tree Carol ~.wmv

www.youtube.com

Joan Baez ~ THE CHERRY TREE CAROL ~ "All collected versions of this most popular of the traditional Christmas carols contain additional verses telling of the birth ...

We now have three Christmas performances in close succession – see below. I hope you don’t feel that we are over doing things. The one on 1st December will include a number of featured carols, but those on 2nd and 3rd will just be well-known carols for everyone to join in. Should be fun!

Next week we will probably be looking at: Hosanna; Suo Gan; Things; Cherubim Song, Cherry Tree Carol, Breton Carol (Come, Descend) and Stille der Nacht

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Thursday 22 November Concert at St Mary’s School (Shaftesbury). 7.00 p.m We will be singing four songs (Suo Gan; Things; Cherubim Song; Stille der Nacht) and, for those that wish to, joining other performers for a rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus (see below). Tickets (£10 for audience members) from Helen Jupp (Tel: 01747 850272; Mob: 07870 975224; e-mail: helenjupp13@gmail.com) Poster attached. Please print off if you can and spread the word of course.

Saturday 1 December Singing for Westminster Memorial Hospital (Shaftesbury) at the Quaker Meeting House. 10.45 (I expect). More details later.

Sunday 2 December Singing for Motcombe Primary School PTA 10.45 Motcombe Village Hall. More details later.

Monday 3 December Late Night Shopping. We have been asked to lead the singing outside the Town Hall from about 6.20 to shortly before 7.00 p.m. More details later.

HALLELUJAH CHORUS (for 22nd November)

The programme for the concert we’re taking part in on Thursday 22 November includes a performance of the Hallelujah chorus which is to be performed by St Edward’s Choir and friends. If you would like to be included amongst their “friends” then you might like to download the sheet music attachment. If you need help with learning your part, then the following Youtube links will be useful:

SOPRANO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TEHurtTmfM

Hallelujah Chorus - Handel (Soprano Part Emphasized)

www.youtube.com

Soprano-emphasized practice track to help you learn to sing the Hallelujah Chorus by G.F. Handel. The left channel has all parts in the background, and the soprano ...

ALTO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wB0GjKpwX6c

TENOR: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cls_oEvCp2U

BASS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNfhCrUPRvU

OTHER EVENTS

Sunday 28 October Come-and-Sing Faure Requiem. Buckhorn Weston. See earlier flyer.

Friday 9 November “Only Remembered” Gillingham Arts Workshop Gillingham Library 5.30 p.m. See last week’s flyer

Saturday 17 November Spectra Musica. Wincanton. See last week’s flyer.

… also …

Variety Show at Shaftesbury Arts Centre. See attached flyer.

Saturday 8 December Salisbury Symphony Orchestra. See earlier flyer.

18 OCTOBER 2018

October 18, 2018

Dear All,

Another tremendous effort last night. It was also great to see such a positive response to the invitation to sing for Motcombe School too, which means that we already have three performances scheduled for the coming months. Making a start on some of our Christmas pieces was not quite as traumatic as I had expected. For the next few weeks we will be concentrating on these and on our programme for St Mary’s on 22 November (see below). Over the next week I will make MP3 recordings of the soprano, alto, tenor and bass parts for the Hallelujah Chorus for those who would like to do some preparation for the grand finale. Although we won’t be starting on the more traditional carols for a few weeks yet, can I suggest that the long standing altos, tenors and basses look out their carol booklets if they have them as this will save enormously on printing costs.

Next time we will probably be looking at: Hosanna; Suo Gan; Things; Cherubim Song, Cherry Tree Carol and the Breton Carol (Come, Descend).

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Thursday 22 November Concert at St Mary’s School (Shaftesbury). 7.00 p.m We will be singing four songs (Suo Gan; Things; Cherubim Song; Stille der Nacht) and, for those that wish to, joining other performers for a rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus. Tickets (£10 for audience members) from Helen Jupp (Tel: 01747 850272; Mob: 07870 975224; e-mail: helenjupp13@gmail.com)

Saturday 1 December Singing for Westminster Memorial Hospital (Shaftesbury) at the Quaker Meeting House. 10.45 (I expect). More details later.

Sunday 2 December Singing for Motcombe Primary School PTA 10.45 Motcombe Village Hall. More details later.

MESSAGE FROM HEIDI (ALTO)

Thank you very much you kind people who sponsored my Mum, Ann. The total raised, as far as we know, is £2006.76 + £80 Gift Aid!! Far more than Mum ever imagined. If you have not seen her skydive in aid of Cancer Research click on:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VMNWRhpGLCUyqhrPqi6Av6Z6hiiwr-aR/view

OTHER EVENTS

Thurs 18 – Sat 20 October The Lady Killers. Shaftesbury Arts Centre. 7.30. With a host of well-known faces including Pam (soprano) and Marie (alto) TICKETS GOING FAST!!

Friday 19 October Palida concert for Amnsety International. St Mary’s Church, Shroton. See attached flyer

Saturday 20 October Sing Your Heart Out with Gilo and Sarah. Cranborne Village Hall See attached flyer

Sunday 21 October Come and Sing Hymnathon. St Peter’s Church. 4.00 pm. Tea and cake afterwards too! See attached flyer.

Sunday 28 October Come-and-Sing Faure Requiem. Buckhorn Weston. See last week’s flyer.

Friday 9 November “Only Remembered” Gillingham Arts Workshop Gillingham Library 5.30 p.m. See attached flyer

Saturday 17 November Spectra Musica. Wincanton. See attached flyer.

Saturday 8 December Salisbury Symphony Orchestra. See last week’s flyer.

David

11 OCTOBER 2018

October 16, 2018

Dear All,

Sorry about the lack of newsletters over the past few weeks. Microsoft and I have had a slightly difficult time of it recently but at least now I can say I’ve got a friend in Silicon Valley! Great singing last night, and lovely to see a few new faces … as well as the regulars of course.

Next time we will probably be looking at: Come and Sing; Hosanna; Call of Wisdom; Suo Gan; Things; Cherubim Song and making an early start on a few Christmas ones.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Thursday 22 November Concert at St Mary’s School (Shaftesbury). We will probably be singing four songs. 7.00 p.m. More details later.

Saturday 1 December Singing for Westminster Memorial Hospital (Shaftesbury) at the Quaker Meeting House. 10.45 (I expect). More details later.

OTHER EVENTS

Wed 17 – Sat 20 October The Lady Killers. Shaftesbury Arts Centre. 7.30. With a host of well-known faces including Pam (soprano) and Marie (also)

Saturday 20 October Sing Your Heart Out with Gilo and Sarah. Cranborne Village Hall

Sunday 28 October Come-and-Sing Faure Requiem. Buckhorn Weston. See attached flyer.

Saturday 8 December Salisbury Symphony Orchestra. See attached flyer.

David

13 SEPTEMBER 2018

September 17, 2018

Dear All,

Lovely to see old friends and some new faces last night. I hope you felt welcome. Thankyou for the positive response to sing at St Mary’s School (Shaftesbury) on Thursday 22 November. More details as they become available. There are lots of other musical events too over the next couple of months including a couple of “Come-and-Sings”. Don’t be daunted, they are great fun.

Don’t forget to bring your £3 for our visit to Cools Farm on Monday – a two hour visit with cream tea/coffee at the end. Although the address is East Knoyle, the farm is not in the village itself but is on the other side of the A350. Best to use satnav [SP3 6DB] or consult the attached Google map. (It is not shown on the OS map for some reason – my apologies Carol!) The outing is primarily a social occasion, but if circumstances allow then I can see no reason why we shouldn’t entertain our hosts … and their cattle of course.

Next time we will probably be looking at: We Got All the Love; Isa Lei; Suo Gan; For Once in my Life; Call of Wisdom; Stille der Nacht; Senzeni Na; Hold On.

OTHER EVENTS

Monday 17 September Choir outing to Cools Farm, East Knoyle, SP3 6DB. 2.00 – 4.00 (See attached map and details above).

Wednesday 26 September “A Plastics Serenade”. Karen’s new piece at the Lighthouse, Poole. See last week’s flyer. (Yes, I know it’s a Wednesday!)

Saturday 29 September Come-and-Sing Handel’s Messiah, Wimborne. See attached flyer.

Friday 5 October Yeovil Proms. See last week’s flyer.

Saturday 13 October Tisbury Cabaret. See attached flyer.

Sunday 21 October The church choir at St Peter’s are holding a hymn marathon on the afternoon of Sunday 21st. Members of the community choir who would like to swell the ranks would be more than welcome.

Sunday 28 October Come-and-Sing Faure Requiem. Buckhorn Weston.

Thursday 22 November Concert at St Marys’ School. 7.00 p.m. More details later.

YOGA CLASSES

Details of Annie (soprano)’s weekly Yoga classes are on the attached flyer.

DAVID

30 AUGUST 2018

August 30, 2018

Dear All,

Lovely singing last night – “Badge Wednesdays” really seem to being out the best in people! Katie (alto) would like to draw our attention to this link which gives a translation of “Isa Lei”:

http://www.fijianlyrics.com/isa-lei-fijian-farewell-song/

Isa Lei (Fijian Farewell Song) « Fijian Lyrics

www.fijianlyrics.com

As you may remember, it has been suggested that choir members might like to know what is in store for them the following week. Next time it will probably be: Walk in Beauty, Ceremony Boogie, One Heart Beating, That Lonesome Road, For Once in my Life, Call of Wisdom, Isa Lei, One man’s Hands, Go Placidly.

A MESSAGE FROM HEIDI (ALTO)

Heidi’s mum completed her skydive last weekend in aid of Cancer Research. The following link will take you to a really EXCELLENT video of her experience. Well worth watching. . Brave lady – what an inspiration.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VMNWRhpGLCUyqhrPqi6Av6Z6hiiwr-aR/view

If you haven’t already sponsored her, I am sure Heidi would be more than happy to accept further donations!

OTHER EVENTS

Friday 7 September The Shaftesbury Group” Art Fair. See attached flier. More details on Facebook / Instagram: @the shaftesburygroup

Sunday 28 October Come-and-Sing Faure Requiem. Buckhorn Weston. See attached flier.

David

23 AUGUST 2018

August 23, 2018

Dear All,

It has been suggested that choir members might like to know what is in store for them the following week. From now on I’ll try and publish a provisional list of songs when putting the newsletter together. Next week it will probably be: Sunshine, Fire and Rain; Te Aroha; O Signore; Wake Up; Call of Wisdom; Isa Lei; That Lonesome Road; Evo Banke.

In connection with Isa Lei, you might like to look at this recording of the song made by Katie (alto)’s daughter in Fiji earlier this year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yt7FhMJVgBs&feature=youtu.be

Isa Isa (Fijian farewell song) - YouTube

www.youtube.com

25 June 2018 Performed by the students of Naceva District School on Kadavu island.

Finally, and most importantly, next week will be BADGE WEDNESDAY. Please come wearing a decorative name badge and get to know some new people.

A MESSAGE FROM HEIDI (ALTO)

Many choir members sponsored Heidi’s head shaving in memory of her father a while back. She writes: “I do not have any sponsored events myself this year, but my mum is being very brave and has booked in to do a Sponsored Tandem Skydive in aid of Cancer Research UK. Hopefully it will be this Saturday, 25th August. ” If you would like to support Heidi and her mum you should be able either click or maybe control/click on this link: https://www.justgiving.com/Ann-Epps?utm_source=Sharethis&utm_medium=fundraisingpage&utm_content=Ann-Epps&utm_campaign=pfp-email&utm_term=NEpBj3VRK.

JustGiving sends your donation straight to Cancer Research UK and automatically reclaims Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer, so your donation is worth even more. Thank you for your support!

Heidi

OTHER EVENTS

Thursday 23 August Evening view + wine of new work by Tanya Hinton and Nick Andrew. 6.00 – 8.00 at Shaftesbury Arts Centre. See attached fliers.

Saturday 25 August Games Sounds and Morsels 12.00 St. Thomas’ Church, Salisbury (see attached flier)

… also at St. Thomas’ Church and on the same day, “Push”. Yuko, Anne H, Clare H, Sue S and maybe one or two more choir members are taking part in - the first performance of a remarkable opera. Full details on http://bit.ly/2tsT4Rr

9 AUGUST 2018

August 9, 2018

Dear All,

Some excellent singing last night. “Alleluia” is always good of course, but “Love, Peace and Wisdom” and “Isa Lei” in particular are going to be real showstoppers. Thanks Katherine (tenor) and Lizzie (Katie [alto]’s daughter) for introducing these songs to us.

As you know, choir continues over the summer months of course although we do not have any bookings in the immediate future and, sadly, the event at Cedars/Castle Hill on Saturday 1 September has been CANCELLED. However, the church choir at St Peter’s are holding a hymn marathon on the afternoon of Sunday 21 October, and I do know that members of the community choir who would like to swell the ranks would be more than welcome.

OTHER EVENTS

Sunday 12 August “Ninebarrow” at Springhead, Fontmell Magna. See attached flier. I’ve heard this duo several times now and their singing is absolutely stunning.

Saturday 25 August “Push” St. Thomas’ Church, Salisbury. Yuko, Anne H, Clare H, Sue S and maybe one or two more choir members are taking part in the first performance of this remarkable opera. Full details on

David

5 JULY 2018

July 6, 2018

Dear All,

Congratulations on an excellent performance on Park Walk last Sunday. Memorable for its casualties as well as for its fine singing! Some fine singing last night too – it was good to revisit some of the songs we’ve not sung for about a year. With a repertoire of almost 150 songs a few are bound to fall by the wayside. Choir continues over the summer months of course although we do not have any other “official” booking until Saturday 1 September. Participating in the proposed hymn marathon at St Peter’s got the thumbs up too, so more details of that as soon as they become available.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Saturday 1 September - Cedars / Castle Hill garden party, Bimport, Shaftesbury.

October (unspecified date) – Hymn Marathon. St peter’s Church

OTHER EVENTS:

Loads of things happening in the area over the coming weeks, so you’ve no excuse to feel bored!

Until 8 July Gill Fest. Lots of events to enjoy in and around Gillingham

Fri 6 – Sun 8 July UK Boogie Woogie Festival Sturminster Newton. Great Boogie Woogie Music from International, National and Local Boogie Players. (see flier)

Saturday 7 July Far and Near. Summer concert given by the Gillingham Singers and guest. 7.30 p.m. East Stour Church (see flier)

Sunday 8 July Sunny Side of Swing Angola. (see flier)

Sunday 8 July Shaftesbury Orchestra Concert. Durweston Village Hall. 7.30 p.m. Music by Nicolai (Merry Wives Overture), Mozart (Horn Concerto No. 4) and Brahms (First Symphony).

Wed – Sat 11-14 and Wed – Sat 18-21 July Mack and Mabel at Shaftesbury Arts Centre 7.30 p.m. Tickets are going well so book yours as soon as you can. The Box Office is open mornings Monday – Saturday.(see flier)

Thursday 26 July Meditation, Mindfulness and Movement (hosted by Michael Mitchell – bass) The Green, East Knoyle. (see flier)

David

14 JUNE 2018

June 16, 2018

Dear All,

More excellent singing last night – we got through a tremendous amount of material in readiness for our performances over the coming weeks - I hope you are looking forward to them. Full details below. Don’t forget to buy your Amore tickets from Julia - choir members are asked to pay £5, guests £7.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Saturday 16 June (this weekend) Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Usual dress code – i.e. shades of red (no patterns) above the waist, dark or black below. Please arrive by 1.45. No parking problems or permits needed - just head for the Village Hall and we’ll be ushered towards the car-park. The programme will be chosen from (in no particular order): Viva la musica; Alleluia (Pachelbel); Bamba Lela; Campfire Song; Follow the Heron; Hippopotamus Song; I can’t help falling in love; I wish I knew how; Up above my head; Morning has come; Dvorak anthem; Long and winding road; Hamba Nighale; Pebble on my tongue; California Dreamin’.

Thursday 21 June (next week) Shaftesbury Civic Day. 2.30. Shaftesbury Town Hall. Julia has organised a number of members of the choir to man our “stall” for the afternoon but we are hoping for a really good turnout of people to sing for up to 30 minutes outside the town hall. Repertoire will largely taken from the Motcombe set.

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore. Tickets (to include a glass of wine / juice + pizza) are now on sale from Julia. This is always a great occasion so do spread the word and bring family and friends along.

Sunday 1 July Shaftesbury Fringe and Gold Hill Fair. Two performances: 11.00 Gospel Sing-a-long with Bell Street Jazz Band (Trinity Centre) and then 1.00 – 1.45 on Park Walk (backs to the wall and away from all generators and other amplified sound!!)

Saturday 1 September Cedars / Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS:

There are fliers for a number of events attached to this newsletter in addition to the following:

Tues 19 – Sat 23 June Midsummer Night’s Dream. 7.45 p.m. Sherborne.

Sunday 24 June Great Get Together. 12.00 noon onwards. Town meadow, Gillingham

… also (and you can do both if you’re quick)

Templecombe Ladies Choir Spring Concert 3.00 p.m. Templecombe

MILK TOPS

Karen is collecting coloured milk tops for a project she is engaged in. Please bring them along on Wednesdays until she shouts “no more”!

BIG BANG PIZZA

If you want to order in advance, then give Marcus a call on 07787 894110 and your pizza will be waiting for you when you arrive.

GDPR

On 25th May 2018, new data protection laws, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), came into effect across the whole of the European Economic Area and was adopted into UK law in the form of a new Data Protection Act. You have given us your email address which is used for sending you information relating to the choir and notices of relevant music opportunities. We hold this information securely, and we don't share your data with any other organisations or people, including other members of the choir, without your permission. You can unsubscribe whenever you want by replying to one of our emails. Your personal information is kept only as long as is necessary for this purpose. If you have any concerns please let Julia know. Otherwise, if you want to be removed from this mailing list just send me a short message to that effect. No hard feelings.

David

7 June 2018

June 7, 2018

Dear All,

Excellent singing last night. Bravo. Following our performance last month we have received the following letter of thanks from the Rotary Club:

"I wanted to write on behalf of Rotary Club of Shaftesbury to thank you and your choir for singing at our cycle ride event on Sunday 20th May on Park Walk.

The weather was very kind to us and everyone taking part or involved on the day had a great time. This helped us to have a very successful day increasing the number of riders taking part as well as increasing the amount we have raised. We have yet to reach a final total but at the last count we had raised £5,500.00. The money we raise is for Prostate Cancer UK as main beneficiary, as well as local charities and good causes that we, as a club, help throughout the year.

Thank you again for your support, and please pass on these thanks to your fellow choristers.

Kind regards

Paul Slimm"

As you know we have several events over the next few weeks. The programme for the Motcombe fete has now been decided upon (see below) and there is a flier attached to this newsletter. Finally, don’t forget to buy your Amore tickets from Julia - choir members are asked to pay £5, guests £7.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Flier attached. Normal dress code – i.e. shades of red (no patterns) above the waist, dark or black below. Please arrive by 1.45. The programme will be chosen from (in no particular order): Viva la musica; Alleluia (Pachelbel); Bamba Lela; Campfire Song; Follow the Heron; Hippopotamus Song; I can’t help falling in love; I wish I knew how; Up above my head; Morning has come; Dvorak anthem; Lollipop; Long and winding road; Hamba Nighale; Pebble on my tongue; California Dreamin’

Thursday 21 June Shaftesbury Civic Day. 2.30. Shaftesbury Town Hall.

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore. Tickets (to include a glass of wine / juice + pizza) are now on sale from Julia.

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS:

As well as our own performances, there are loads and loads of musical events over the coming weeks. Fliers for a few of them are attached.

Friday 8 June (this Friday) Concert in memory of Marjory Kellet. 7.30 p.m. Bell Street United Church, Shaftesbury.

Tues 19 – Sat 23 June Midsummer Night’s Dream. 7.45 p.m. Sherborne.

Sunday 24 June Great Get Together. 12.00 noon onwards. Town meadow, Gillingham

… also (and you can do both if you’re quick)

Templecombe Ladies Choir Spring Concert 3.00 p.m. Templecombe

S.O.S.

Steve (bass) and Margaret (alto) are moving house, but will still be in Gillingham I am pleased to say. However they have a cat that needs fostering for a couple of months. They would be delighted to hear from anyone who can help out. Contact them on halerysm@gmail.com

BIG BANG PIZZA

If you want to order in advance, then give Marcus a call on 07787 894110 and your pizza will be waiting for you when you arrive.

GDPR

David

24 MAY 2018

May 26, 2018

Dear All,

Our performance last weekend for the North Dorset Cycle Ride was a really cheerful affair. Thankyou, all of you, for making the effort and joining in with the music making. We were much appreciated I can tell you!

Flaming June will soon be upon us. As well as the Motcombe Fete (Saturday 16th) and our pizza party on Wednesday 27th, we have been asked to take part in Shaftesbury Civic Society’s Civic Day which is a celebration of all the good things that Shaftesbury has to offer. This will be on Thursday 21st and we have a slot at 2.30 for about 20 minutes when we will be singing outside the Town Hall. Repertoire to be decided but it will almost certainly be taken from the programme we will be preparing for Motcombe. Please put this extra date in your diaries.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Please arrive by 1.45. Details to follow.

Thursday 21 June Shaftesbury Civic Day. 2.30. Shaftesbury Town Hall. (see above)

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore. Tickets (to include a glass of wine / juice + pizza) are now on sale from Julia. Choir members are asked to pay £5, guests £7.

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS:

Thursday 24 May (TODAY) Concert given by Shreen Harmony at Gillingham Methodist Church in aid of Dementia Awareness. 7.30 p.m. (Shreen Harmony are a community choir based in Mere.)

Saturday 2nd June Misbehavin’ at Wimborne. (Jazz with Karen, Robin et al) 7.30 p.m. See attached flier.

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from:deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

Saturday 23 June Choral Workshop with CitySound Voices, Bath. See previous newsletters.

GDPR

On 25th May 2018, new data protection laws, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), will come into effect across the whole of the European Economic Area and will be adopted into UK law in the form of a new Data Protection Act. You have given us your email address which is used for sending you information relating to the choir and notices of relevant music opportunities. We hold this information securely, and we don't share your data with any other organisations or people, including other members of the choir, without your permission. You can unsubscribe whenever you want by replying to one of our emails. Your personal information is kept only as long as is necessary for this purpose. If you have any concerns please let me know.

BIG BANG PIZZA

If you want to order in advance, then give Marcus a call on 07787 894110 and your pizza will be waiting for you when you arrive.

David

17 MAY 2018

May 17, 2018

Dear All,

Looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible this coming Sunday for the North Dorset Cycle Ride which promises to be a great affair. It would be wonderful to have a STUPENDOUS turnout! We will be singing on Park Walk under an awning so no fear of getting wet or too much sun. The cycle routes seem to be all south of the A30 so if you are coming from the south or west of Shaftesbury take a look at the route maps so that you don’t get caught up with any possible road closures. (Thanks Sheila [soprano] for this info.) You can find the routes on: https://shaftesburyrotaryclub.org/gold-hill-cycle-ride/ride-details/ Julia is sorting out what we have to do in order to comply with the new data protection legislation that is shortly coming into force. All choir newsletters are sent “bcc” anyway and with luck it will simply mean that you can just ask to be removed from the choir mailing list rather than have to positively opt into it all over again. More about this next time.

Ride Details - Shaftesbury Rotary Club

shaftesburyrotaryclub.org

Route and Ride Information - The North Dorset Cycle Ride in aid of Prostrate Cancer UK - All money collected goes 100% to Prostrate Cancer UK

Finally, if you are singing in the Pentecost service, we are rehearsing this evening (Thursday) at 7.00 in the Shearer Room at Bell Street United Church (entrance on Bell Street itself – next to the opticians).

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Sunday 20 May (this weekend) 12.15 start on Park Walk for Rotary Club’s prostate cancer cycle ride. Please arrive at 12.00 and congregate close to the awning where the Town Band will be / have been playing. Normal dress code (i.e. shades of red above the waist, dark or black below. No patterned tops please!)

We will be singing (no particular order): Rongo Mau; Feelin’ Groovy; Things; Chattanooga Choo Choo; Senzene Na; Viva La Musica; I Wish I Knew How; Hippopotamus Song; If there is to be Peace; The Long and Winding Road; Let's Call the Whole Thing Off; Bela Mama; Hold On.0.0

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Please arrive by 1.45.

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS:

Saturday 19 May (this weekend) Barn Dance with the Hambledon Hopsteps. Lower Langham Farm, Gillingham. See previous newsletters.

Sunday 20 May (this weekend) Churches Together Pentecost Service. Shaftesbury Abbey Garden 4 o’clock

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from:deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

Saturday 23 June Choral Workshop with CitySound Voices, Bath. See last week’s newsletter.

BIG BANG PIZZA

Great to see Marcus back with his pop-up pizza bar. If you want to order in advance, then give him a call on 07787 894110 and your pizza will be waiting for you when you arrive.

David

10 MAY 2018

May 10, 2018

Dear All,

It was a really good sing last night. Special thanks to Robin for his sparkling ukulele playing. Our programme for the Food Festival promises to be great fun. Don’t forget we will be singing most of the same programme the following week for the Rotary Club Cycle Ride too, although the ukes will not be joining us on that occasion. I am attaching two of the MP3s that we made last night so you can do a bit of practice if you feel insecure about some of the newer pieces. The others will be up on the website in a couple of days. Julia is sorting out what we have to do in order to comply with the new data protection legislation that is shortly coming into force. All choir newsletters are sent “bcc” anyway and with luck it will simply mean that you can just ask to be removed from the choir mailing list rather than have to positively opt into it all over again. More about this next time.

Finally, if you are wanting to sing in the Pentecost service, we are having our first rehearsal this evening (Thursday) at 6.30 in the Shearer Room at Bell Street United Church (entrance on Bell Street itself – next to the opticians).

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Sunday 13 May (this weekend) Shaftesbury Food Festival 11.00 – 12.00 (12.30) Shaftesbury Abbey Garden (30 mins choir only, 30 mins choir & ukes, 30 mins ukes only.) Please arrive at 10.30. Normal dress code (i.e. shades of red above the waist, dark or black below. No patterned tops please!)

The set with the ukes will be: Rongo Mau; Feelin’ Groovy; Don't Worry Be Happy; Things; Chattanooga Choo Choo.

On our own we will singing: Senzene Na; Viva La Musica; I Wish I Knew How; Hippopotamus Song; If there is to be Peace; The Long and Winding Road; Let's Call the Whole Thing Off; Bela Mama.

Sunday 20 May 12.30 (approx – precise time to follow) Park Walk for Rotary Club’s prostate cancer cycle ride. The programme will be largely selected from last week’s sets.

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Please arrive by 1.45.

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS:

Saturday 19 May Barn Dance with the Hambledon Hopsteps. Lower Langham Farm, Gillingham. See previous newsletters.

Sunday 20 May Churches Together Pentecost Service. Shaftesbury Abbey Garden 4 o’clock. (I have been asked to get a group together, to which you are more than welcome to join, both to lead the singing and, depending on numbers, do a couple of songs / anthems as well) There will be rehearsals on Thursday 10 May (6.30 – 7.15), Thursday 17 May (7.00 – 7.45) and Sunday 20 May (2.45 – 3.30) at the United Church in Bell Street. Music will be provided for those that want it.

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from:deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

Saturday 23 June Choral Workshop with CitySound Voices, Bath. See attached flier.

BIG BANG PIZZA

Great to see Marcus back with his pop-up pizza bar. If you want to order in advance, then give him a call on 07787 894110 and your pizza will be waiting for you when you arrive.

David

26 APRIL 2018

April 30, 2018

Dear All,

Another really good sing last night! Special thanks to Elizabeth (tenors) for providing us with a translation of “Rongo Mau”. Not what we were expecting I am sure. I have been asked to get a group together to lead the singing and, depending on numbers, do a couple of songs / anthems as part of the annual Churches Together Pentecost service to be held in SHAFTESBURY ABBEY GARDEN which will be at 4 o’clock on SUNDAY 20 MAY. It goes without saying that members of the community choir are VERY welcome indeed. I should be able to give you rehearsal details by next week, but if you are interested in taking part, please note the date and time now. [This is the same date (and almost the same place!) as our singing for the Rotary Club’s prostate cancer cycle ride.] Also, next week, Andrea (altos) will be bringing in the booklets for this year’s Dorset Art Weeks’ events – lots to look forward to there.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS:

Sunday 13 May Shaftesbury Food Festival 11.00 – 12.00 (12.30) Shaftesbury Abbey Garden (30 mins choir only, 30 mins choir & ukes, 30 mins ukes only.)

The set with the ukes will be: Rongo Mau; Feelin’ Groovy; Don't Worry Be Happy; Can't Help Falling in Love; Things (Bobby Darrin); Chattanooga Choo Choo.

On our own we will singing from the following provisional list: Senzene Na; Sakura; Viva La Musica; I Wish I Knew How; Hippopotamus Song; If there is to be Peace; The Long and Winding Road; Let's Call the Whole Thing Off; Bela Mama.

Sunday 20 May 12.30 Park Walk for Rotary Club’s prostate cancer cycle ride. The programme will be largely selected from last week’s sets.

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Please arrive by 1.45.

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore

Sunday 1 July Shaftesbury Fringe and Gold Hill Fair. Two performances: 11.00 Gospel Sing-a-long with Bell Street Jazz Band (Trinity Centre) and then 1.00 – 1.45 on Park Walk

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS:

Saturday 5 May Bournemouth Male Voice Choir. St Mary’s, Gillingham.

Tuesday 8 May 12.15 St Gregory’s Church, Marnhull. Lunchtime organ recital given by Chris Mahon.

Saturday 19 May Barn Dance with the Hambledon Hopsteps. Lower Langham Farm, Gillingham. See attached flier.

Sunday 20 May Churches Together Pentecost service. (See above)

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from:deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

BIG BANG PIZZA

Great to see Marcus back with his pop-up pizza bar. If you want to order in advance, then give him a call on 07787 894110 and your pizza will be waiting for you when you arrive.

David

12 APRIL 2018

April 17, 2018

Dear All,

As you know, the choir have quite a number of performances over the summer. Details are still coming in but you will be kept up to date via newsletters and the choir website as well ason Wednesday evenings of course. We now have timings for the Food Festival, Motcombe Fete and the Shaftesbury Fringe / Gold Hill Fair and we are beginning to put together a programme for the Food Festival (see below).

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Sunday 13 May Shaftesbury Food Festival 11.00 – 12.00 (12.30) Shaftesbury Abbey Garden (30 mins choir only, 30 mins choir & ukes, 30 mins ukes only.) The provisional set with the ukes is: Don't Worry Get Happy; Things (Bobby Darrin); Can’t help falling in love with you; Chattanooga Choo Choo; Isn’t She Lovely; Rongo Mau; Stand By Me.

Sunday 20 May 12.30 Park Walk for Rotary Club’s prostate cancer cycle ride

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete 2.00 – 2.45. Please arrive by 1.45.

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore

Sunday 1 July Shaftesbury Fringe and Gold Hill Fair. Two performances: 11.00 Gospel Sing-a-long with Bell Street Jazz Band (Trinity Centre) and then 1.00 – 1.45 on Park Walk

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

David

5 APRIL 2018

April 5, 2018

Dear All,

I really enjoyed yesterday evening – I hope you had as good a time as I did! Particular thanks to Yuko (soprano) for suggesting we celebrate the Japanese cherry blossom festival and for her lovely rendition of “Sakura, Sakura”. We’ll be doing verse 2 next week. In the meantime do look at some of the many recordings (and videos) that are available on Youtube and elsewhere. There are also several versions of “Senzeni na” which I thought was particularly moving and a fitting tribute to Martin Luther King. We’ve got quite a lot of choir events over the summer. Do make sure you have them in your diaries so that we can put on a good show. Incidentally, I think I said “Viva la musica” was in Latin. I stand corrected - it isn’t. It’s Spanish but by the German composer Michael Praetorius (1571 – 1621). Very odd. Also, Tess (alto) tells me that the composer Vaughan Williams, on first hearing “Bushes and Briars”, was recorded as having said that he had felt he had known the song all his life.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Sunday 13 May Shaftesbury Food Festival (with ukes) Shaftesbury Abbey Garden

Sunday 20 May 12.30 Park Walk for Rotary Club’s prostate cancer cycle ride

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” party at Amore

Sunday 1 July Shaftesbury Fringe and Gold Hill Fair. Two performances; 11.00 Gospel Sing-a-long with Bell Street Jazz Band (Trinity Centre) and then early afternoon on Park Walk

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party, Bimport.

OTHER EVENTS - THIS WEEKEND:

until Sat 7 April Milborne Port Opera. Trial By Jury and The Murder at Shakerley House. See previous newsletter.

Friday 6 April Spring Concert (flute and piano] at Gillingham Methodist Church. FREE. See previous newsletter.

Saturday 7 April Sing Your Heart Out. Workshop with Gilo and Sarah. Cranborne. See attached flier.

IN THE FUTURE:

Saturday 5 May Bournemouth Male Voice Choir. St Mary’s, Gillingham. See attached flier.

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from: deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

David

22 MARCH 2018

March 23, 2018

Dear All,

Congratulations on another really good sing last night. Lovely to see some new faces too. Please add the dates below to your diaries. Details of times / venues / programme etc. will follow when details are firmed up but please mark them up NOW! And before I forget, don’t forget to change the clocks this weekend.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Sunday 13 May Shaftesbury Food Festival

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete

Wednesday 27 June “Slice of Song” at Amore

Fri 29 June – Sun 1 July Shaftesbury Fringe (probably on the Saturday) and Gold Hill Fair (on the Sunday)

Saturday 1 September Cedars Castle Hill garden party

OTHER EVENTS - THIS WEEKEND:

Saturday 24 March “Light and Shade” – concert given by Gillingham Singers and soloists at St Mary’s Gillingham. 7.30 p.m. Programme will include the Faure Requiem, Long and Winding Road and Call of Wisdom. £8.00 See previous newsletter for flier.

Sunday 25 March Concert by given by Shaftesbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. Port Regis School. Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto, Symphony 7 and an overture by Mozart. FREE. See previous newsletter for flier.

IN THE FUTURE:

Wed 4 – Sat 7 April Milborne Port Opera. Trial By Jury and The Murder at Shakerley House. See attached flier

Friday 6 April Spring Concert (flute and piano] at Gillingham Methodist Church. FREE. See attached flier.

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from:deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

8 MARCH 2018

March 9, 2018

Dear All,

Congratulations on a really good sing last night. With luck, the worst of the winter weather is now behind us and we’ll soon be up to full strength. Can you check your diaries for the Motcombe Fete on Saturday 16th June? Even though we will probably be singing much of the same programme, with Shaftesbury Fringe / Gold Hill Fair only a fortnight later, we don’t want anyone to feel overloaded. Details of venues / programme / times etc. will follow in due course.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Sunday 13 May Shaftesbury Food Festival

Saturday 16 June Motcombe Fete

Fri 29 June – Sun 1 July Shaftesbury Fringe (probably on the Saturday) and Gold Hill Fair (on the Sunday)

Arrangements are also underway for our traditional “Slice of Song” at Amore together with a new community event on Castle Hill (probably in October). Watch this space as details are firmed up.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 10 March Concert given by Salisbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. City Hall. See previous newsletter.

Saturday 17 March Singers Training Day at Wincanton, hosted by the Pilgrim Singers and working on a variety of pieces, but to include several African chants and Irish songs (as it is St Patrick’s Day). Contact Jane Fenton immediately on 01963 33695 or janeyfents@hotmail.com if you are interested. Cost £20.

Sunday 18 March “Incandescendo” 4.00 p.m. at Springhead, Fontmell Magna. 4.00 p.m. Latin Grooves and Dolce Tunes for cello and percussion.

Saturday 24 March “Light and Shade” – concert given by Gillingham Singers at St Mary’s Gillingham. See attached flier.

Sunday 25 March Concert by given by Shaftesbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. Port Regis School. FREE. See previous newsletter.

Saturday 16 June Choral Day at Port Regis directed by Deborah Radford working on pieces from West Side Story etc. Music provided. Cost £18. Details from:deborahradfordchoraldays@gmail.com

NEWS FROM TONY

Tony and Michael arrived in Shanghai last night and are meeting up with friends of mine this evening.

David

15 FEBRUARY 2018

February 20, 2018

Dear All,

Congratulations to all those hardy souls who braved last night’s atrocious weather. The singing was really great with a couple of new songs, helpful (I hope) revision of some work-in-progress and, of course, a few old favourites. I hope you had as much fun as I did!

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

There are no immediate choir events although arrangements are underway for the Shaftesbury Fringe (another Gospel singalong maybe) and Gold Hill Fair together with a new community event on Castle Hill (probably in October) and our traditional “Slice of Song” at Amore. Watch this space as details are firmed up. Things seem to have gone quiet in connection with the Food Festival though. Does anyone know anything more than I do?

OTHER EVENTS

Friday 16 February Grand Charity Quiz at the Olive Bowl in Gillingham. 6.30 p.m. for 7.00 p.m. See previous newsletter.

Friday 23 February Palida sing Letters to the World 7pm at Shaftesbury Arts Centre prior to film at 8pm 'A Quiet Passion' Concert free, film tickets at SAC box office or at the door.

Saturday 10 March Concert given by Salisbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. City Hall. See attached flier.

Sunday 25 March Concert by given by Shaftesbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. Port Regis School. FREE. See attached flier.

1 FEBRUARY 2018

February 3, 2018

Dear All,

It was good to celebrate last night’s blue moon with an appropriate song and, of course, to observe Burns Night a week earlier. A pity that “Robin Adair” wasn’t actually by Burns, the tune was Irish and the song largely set in Bath! Minor details. Just in case the sadness of the words might have caused some distress though, Tess (alto) reliably informs us that the actual poet, Lady Caroline Keppel, did in fact get Master Robin at the end of the day. “Slow Train” is harder than I had expected and progress is proving to be rather slow. We’ll give it a couple more weeks though and see how it shapes up.

In the meantime, you might like to click on this link, which is how our version could sound one day: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0bfRvfW3WA

King's Singers 'Slow Train' Flanders & Swann

www.youtube.com

King's Singers 'Slow Train' Flanders & Swann From a 1977 LP. I haven't found this on YT before, and it is such a lovely arrangement and beautifully performed I ...

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

There are no immediate choir events although arrangements are underway for the Food Festival, Shaftesbury Fringe (another Gospel singalong maybe) and Gold Hill Fair together with a new community event on Castle Hill (probably in October) and, in case you think it had been forgotten, another “Slice of Song” at Amore. Watch this space as details are firmed up.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 3 February Sunny Side of Swing. Shroton Village Hall. See attached flier.

Sunday 11 February Afternoon Tea. A delightful opportunity for those living with dementia and their carers. Please let any local affected people and their carers know about the informal concert which the Mayor is hosting especially for them. Tea will be served and some of the music will be to sing along to - we know how good singing is good for the brain. The concert is at 3 p.m. in the Town Hall. To book, phone the Town Hall on 852420. We are grateful to the mayor for his kindness. The cost is an optional donation. See attached flier.

Tuesday 13 February Interest evening at Shaftesbury Arts Centre for anyone considering taking part in “Mack and Mabel”, this year’s summer musical. 7.30 p.m. See previous newsletter.

Friday 16 February Grand Charity Quiz at the Olive Bowl in Gillingham. 6.30 p.m. for 7.00 p.m. See previous newsletter.

Saturday 10 March Concert given by Salisbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. City Hall. See attached flier.

Sunday 25 March Concert by given by Shaftesbury Orchestra. 7.30 p.m. Port Regis School. FREE. See attached flier.

David