6 MARCH 2020

March 6, 2020

Lovely singing again on Wednesday and the recording we made in memory of Phil the Fluter has come out pretty well I think. (MP3 attached). Some great German pronunciation in Lili Marlene too - Wunderbar! Next week we will recap Lili Marlene together with the verse of We’ll Meet Again and learn the coda to Everytime We Say Goodbye. Time permitting we’ll also be singing Alleluia, Vive la Compagnie, Wake Up, Down in the River and Isa Lei.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Tuesday 24th March Entertainment for members the Stroke Club. Charlton Village Hall (just off the A30 to the east of Shaftesbury.) Singing from 11 o’clock for about 30 / 45 minutes. (Tea and coffee from 10.30)

Friday 8th May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. Our programme will be taken from (in no particular order): Blue Moon; Chattanooga ChooChoo; Java Jive; Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off; Run Rabbit Run; Tuxedo Junction; We’ll Meet Again; Everytime We Say Goodbye; Lili Marlene and possibly Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major.

Sunday 5th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

STEVE RIDOUT

Long established members of the choir will be saddened to hear that Steve passed away, suddenly but peacefully, at home, on Tuesday (3rd). He was a wonderful singer – the tenors will miss him in particular – and a loyal member of the choir until his Parkinsons became too debilitating. I have written to his wife, Ann, on behalf of us all of course and she will let us know when the funeral will be in due course.

PHIL THE FLUTER

We have yet to hear when Phil’s funeral will take place but should insufficient members be able to attend, the recording we made on Wednesday should provide a fitting tribute. I have sent the recording to “This is Alfred” who have already made a podcast about his tragic death. You can find it at www.thisalfred.com (Episode 90 from 7’30” onwards). I have also been in touch with the coroner’s office and they have asked me to ring back in a couple of weeks. However, I understand that wherever / whenever the actual funeral takes place there will be a service of some kind in Shaftesbury to honour his memory. The idea of planting a tree was very enthusiastically received by the Shaftesbury Tree Group (probably a bare root crab apple, variety ‘Evereste’) and they plan to meet the head groundsman early next week. However, rather than a plaque, they suggest putting up a temporary notice by the tree to coincide with some significant date. This way, many more people pause and read because it is a new intervention. More details as I get them.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 7th March Rockforte - Great songs from the 50s onwards. Another lively joint production between the Tisbury Arts Group and the home grown band Rockforte. 7.00 p.m. Victoria Hall, Tisbury. See attached flyer.

… also

Training Day with the Pilgrim Singers (Wincanton). See last week’s flyer

Thursday 12th March Dorset Waste talk. See attached flyer

Saturday 14th March Women in Jazz with Julie Dunn. The Gugg, Stalbridge. See last week’s flyer.

Saturday 28th March Recital by clarinetist Emma Johnson MBE. St Peter’s Church. 7.30 p.m. Tickets available from Shaftesbury TIC or Tony Hawkins (bass). See earlier flyer.

Mon 6th – Sat 18th April Dorchester Community Play. See attached flyer.

DAVID

27 FEBRUARY 2020

February 27, 2020

As I said last week, the programme for the VE Day Celebrations gets better and better, and last night’s singing was just glorious. Next week we will continue with Lili Marlene and do the verse of We’ll Meet Again. We’ll also be singing Bela Mama, Balanced Be The Way, Vive La Compagnie, I wish I Knew How, Run Rabbit Run and Isa Lei.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Friday 8th May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later.

Sunday 5th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

PHIL THE FLUTER (Philip Gilbert)

Members of the choir were sad to hear that Phil died last Thursday (20th). He was found in the foyer of Lloyds Bank. He was often to be seen (and heard) playing his penny whistle outside the Cancer Research Shop in the High Street and was a frequent and welcome visitor on Wednesday evenings, dropping in for a cup of tea, a few biscuits, a bit of conversation and perhaps a little tlc too. At the moment, the circumstances surrounding his death are unclear but I understand that it is not being treated as suspicious. The coroner’s office is trying to trace his relatives (I seem to remember him telling me he had family in Cornwall) but if none can be found the undertakers assure me that he will be given a simple but dignified cremation. I have asked them to let me know when this will be. Our performance of Senzeni Na last night was given in his memory and a few members of the choir suggested we might record this and arrange to have it played at his funeral if we weren’t able to get there in sufficient numbers ourselves. It was also suggested that we should send this recording to “This Is Alfred” and I will follow that through. Several people have already made donations to Shelter in his memory and there has been a suggestion that we plant a tree as a living memorial – perhaps a crab apple, blossom, bees and then fruit for anyone who wants to make crab apple jelly. ' For Phil, Thank you for the Music'. A lovely idea I think.

OTHER EVENTS

Thursday 27th February What we need to do now for a zero carbon future. (A talk by Chris Goodall). Shaftesbury Town Hall. 7.30 p.m. ADMISSION FREE See last week’s flyer

Saturday 7th March Training Day with the Pilgrim Singers (Wincanton). See last week’s flyer.

Thursday 12th March Dorset Waste talk. See earlier flyer

Saturday 14th March Women in Jazz with Julie Dunn. The Gugg, Stalbridge. See last week’s flyer.

Saturday 28th March Recital by clarinetist Emma Johnson MBE. St Peter’s Church. 7.30 p.m. Tickets available from Shaftesbury TIC or Tony Hawkins (bass). See earlier flyer.

David

20 FEBRUARY 2020

February 20, 2020

The programme for the VE Day Celebrations just gets better and better. There was some really lovely singing last night. Lovely songs too of course with some classy arrangements. Next week we will continue with We’ll Meet Again and Ev’rytime We Say Goodbye and hopefully start Lili Marlene, time permitting. We’ll also be singing We Got All the Love, Illa Lucem, This Little Light of Mine, I can’t help falling in love and Senzeni Na once more.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Friday 8th May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later.

Sunday 5th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

COUNTRYFILE

This Sunday’s broadcast (BBC1 6.10 – 7.10) features Shaftesbury and the annual Snowdrop Festival. Look out for some familiar faces.

OTHER EVENTS

Sunday 23rd February Singing workshop with Helen Porter. See earlier information sheet.

Tuesday 25th February Pancake Day Coffee Morning at East Stour. See last week’s flyer.

Thursday 27th February What we need to do now for a zero carbon future. (A talk by Chris Goodall). Shaftesbury Town Hall. 7.30 p.m. ADMISSION FREE See last week’s flyer

Saturday 7th March Training Day with the Pilgrim Singers (Wincanton). See attached flyer.

Thursday 12th March Dorset Waste talk. See attached flyer

Saturday 14th March Women in Jazz with Julie Dunn. The Gugg, Stalbridge. See attached flyer.

Saturday 28th March Recital by clarinetist Emma Johnson MBE. St Peter’s Church. 7.30 p.m. Tickets available from Shaftesbury TIC or Tony Hawkins (bass). See earlier flyer.

David

13 FEBRUARY 2020

February 20, 2020

Another good turn-out last night. Our programme for the VE Day Celebrations is shaping up well. Next week we will continue with We’ll Meet Again and Ev’rytime You Say Goodbye – both of which are sounding good - as well as looking at Mravalza miev once more, Come and Sing, Siyahamba, Bogoroditse Deva, I Can’t Help Falling in Love and Senzeni Na. Something for everyone I hope you will agree.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Friday 8th May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later.

Sunday 5th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

OTHER EVENTS

Sunday 23rd February Singing workshop with Helen Porter. See last week’s information sheet.

Tuesday 25th February Pancake Day Coffee Morning at East Stour. See attached flyer.

Thursday 27th February What we need to do now for a zero carbon future. (A talk by Chris Goodall). Shaftesbury Town Hall. 7.30 p.m. ADMISSION FREE See attached flyer

Saturday 14th March Women in Jazz with Julie Dunn. The Gugg, Stalbridge. See attached flyer.

Saturday 28th March Recital by clarinetist Emma Johnson MBE. St Peter’s Church. 7.30 p.m. Tickets available from Shaftesbury TIC or Tony Hawkins (bass). See earlier flyer.

David

7 FEBRUARY 2020

February 7, 2020

Another refreshing sing last night. Chattanooga, In My Life and Stille der Nacht are all sounding great and we made a good start on Steve’s (bass) arrangement of We’ll Meet Again too. Thankyou Steve. Next week we will continue with We’ll Meet Again and make a start on Cole Porter’s Ev’rytime You Say Goodbye in preparation for Shaftesbury’s VE Day celebrations. Time permitting, we’ll also be singing Viva La Musica, Every time I feel the Spirit, Ani Couni and the Georgian drinking song (Mravalza miev) that we sang with Sian a couple of weeks ago.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Friday 8th May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later.

Sunday 5th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 8th February The Mill Singers are supporting our local Read Easy group in the afternoon at Gillingham Methodist Church. See attached flyer.

Sunday 9th February Dorset Bach Cantata Club informal concert. (The orchestra will be excellent!) 4.15 Sturminster Newton High School. ADMISSION FREE

Sunday 23rd February Singing workshop with Helen Porter. See attached information sheet.

Thursday 27th February What we need to do now for a zero carbon future. (A talk by Chris Goodall). Shaftesbury Town Hall. 7.30 p.m. ADMISSION FREE See attached flyer

Saturday 28th March Recital by clarinetist Emma Johnson MBE. St Peter’s Church. 7.30 p.m. Tickets available from Shaftesbury TIC or Tony Hawkins (bass). See earlier flyer.

David

17 JANUARY 2020

January 17, 2020

A good sing again last night. Be warned, parking might be a bit tricky for the next two Wednesdays because of the Arts Centre pantomime. It might be worth aiming to get here that bit earlier in order to bag a space in the carpark. Our carol singing last month raised over eighty pounds and Julia has sent donations to our chosen good causes - Crisis and the Shaftesbury Tree Planting Group - as well as making a contribution to the Salvation Army’s street collection. Julia, Karen and I loved our 10th birthday presents – thankyou very much - and I am attaching a copy of the very clever birthday card we received. See if you can do it! (Karen got full marks, I only managed 8/11.) Next week we will be singing: Listen, Yenamanoa, Blue Moon, In my life, Chattanooga, Stille der Nacht, Gloucestershire Wassail, Ani Couni. See you then.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Wednesday 29th January Special session with guest director Sian Croose - well known for her uplifting and inclusive style as well as her ability to support groups of singers to stretch themselves and create a wonderful sound!

Friday 8th May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later.

Sunday 5th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 18th January Shaftesbury Swing Band (aka Swing Bin and the Liners) are having a reunion and playing together for the first time in about 20 years. There will be an informal concert in St Peter’s Church at about 3.15. Feel free to call in. No charge!

Saturday 28th March Recital by clarinetist Emma Johnson MBE. St Peter’s Church. 7.30 p.m. Tickets available from Shaftesbury TIC or Tony Hawkins (bass). See attached flyer.

NEW SPRING COURSES AT GOLD HILL MUSEUM

See the attached flyer for full details of this term’s adult community education courses.

10 JANUARY 2020

January 10, 2020

Happy New year one and all.

Brilliant party last night. It was wonderful to see so many there – regulars of course, a few lapsed members and some new faces too. Wonderful. Particular thanks to Julia (of course) for organising it all and to those who took part in the entertainment. For those of you who missed it, here’s a link to some of the proceedings:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdNvqrflYAY

And in case you know anyone not sure whether to take the plunge have a read of this: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2020/jan/02/black-white-avant-garde-atheist-how-did-choirs-become-so-cool

Next week we will be singing: I’m gonna sing, sing, sing; Bamba Lela; Argentine Carol; Pebble on My Tongue; Chattanooga Choo-Choo; Ani Couni; In My Life; Hold On.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Wednesday 29th January Session with guest director Sian Croose - well known for her uplifting and inclusive style as well as her ability to support groups of singers to stretch themselves and create a wonderful sound!

Friday 8 May Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later.

Sunday 6th July Gold Hill Fair. More details later.

David

12 DECEMBER 2019

December 12, 2019

Dear All,

Looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our events over the next couple of weeks. As well as those listed below we have also been invited to sing around the wards at the hospital on Thursday 19th December 6.45 for 7.00 p.m. [All welcome, speak to Jenny (soprano) or Sue (alto)] and to sing at the Gillingham Christmas lunch at midday on Christmas Day itself – see Tess (alto).

I am attaching a video made of our carol singing for the Christmas Tree lights last week. It is also on the website (thankyou Andrea) so do share it with your friends. As I’ve said before, it was a revelation, to me at least, to hear just how effective it is to be miked up. Judge for yourselves!

Finally, don’t forget to wear a festive name badge next Wednesday – there will be a truly fantastic prize for the winner.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 14 December Singing for the Friends of Westminster Hospital Christmas Bazaar. 10.45 – 11.30 Please arrive 10.30. We will be singing close to the therapy room at the hospital itself, NOT the Quaker Meeting House, and hopefully outdoors if the weather is suitable. Usual dress code.

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. Assembling for 5.00 p.m. at the Coppleridge (Elm Hill, Motcombe, SP7 9HR). There will be a pit stop at Motcombe Grange (SP7 9HJ) at around 5.30 / 5.45 and we should arrive at the Village Hall about 6.15. We will be singing en route with the Shaftesbury Town Band as well as doing some numbers ourselves at the Coppleridge and the Grange. Usual dress code again and it might be wise to bring a torch or a lantern.

Wednesday 18 December Choir Christmas Party. Mulled wine and mince pies of course (thankyou Dick), a little bit of entertainment, lots of singing and a fabulous prize for the most festive name badge.

Thursday 19 December 10.45 – 11.30 Carol singing in Shaftesbury High Street (hopefully in front of the Christmas Tree) with coffee and mince pies at the Arts Centre afterwards. Please arrive 10.30. Usual dress code again. Proceeds divided 50/50 between Crisis, the UK national charity for homeless people, and the 2020 Tree Planting initiative led by the Shaftesbury Tree Group and Town Council.

Christmas Day and New Year’s Day No Choir. (Two weeks off this year!)

Wednesday 8 January 2020 Grand Choir Party to herald in 2020 and to celebrate 10 glorious years!

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. More details later … much later.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 14 December Spectra Musica Christmas Concert. Wincanton. See earlier flyer

… also Gillingham Singers concert. St Mary’s Church. See last week’s flyer.

Sunday 15 December Shaftesbury Orchestra at Port Regis School. 7.30 p.m. Music by Weber and Schubert and with quite a few familiar faces in the orchestra too. In aid of HeadSmart. See last week’s flyer

Tuesday 17 December Roses, Berries and all that is Green. Palida and the Shaftesbury Ukeleles. 8.00 p.m. Town Hall. See last week’s flyer

Friday 20 December Here we come a-wassailing… Gillingham Arts Workshop at Gillingham Library. 5.3-0 – 6.30. FREE. See last week’s flyer.

5 DECEMBER 2019

December 9, 2019

Dear All,

Congratulations on a truly wonderful turn out for the Christmas Tree lights on Monday and for singing so lustily last night too. What a great bunch of people you are! I particularly enjoyed making a start on two old favourites of mine yesterday – Bethlehem Down and Joyful Mysteries. I am attaching a recording of the latter in case you have not had it before. It was also a revelation, to me at least, to hear just how effective it was to be miked up.

This weekend, on Saturday afternoon, we have the Life Celebration for Diane at East Stour Village Hall (SP8 5JY). Although it does not officially start until 2.00 p.m., guests are arriving from 1.00 so we are asking you to get there at 12.30 both to work out where we will be singing from and to have a quick run through. We will have a room set aside if we want to bring a picnic lunch, and there will be refreshments available afterwards for those who would like to stay on. PLEASE DO SUPPORT THIS IF YOU POSSIBLY CAN. As a choir we have sung at two or three such occasions over the past ten years and they are very moving experiences and really, really appreciated by the families of the deceased.

For our carol singing on Thursday 19th December we are going to support two good causes: Crisis, the UK national charity for homeless people, and the 2020 Tree Planting initiative led by the Shaftesbury Tree Group and Town Council.

We will be having a guest director on Wednesday 29th January, when Karen and I will be handing over the baton, temporarily, to Sian Croose. She is well known for her uplifting and inclusive style as well as her ability to support groups of singers to stretch themselves and create a wonderful sound!

Finally, if you have an item or two that you would like to perform at our New Year Party please let me know over the next couple of weeks and make sure you see me write it down.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 7 December Life Celebration for Diane May at East Stour village hall. 2.00 p.m. We will be singing “Wake up” and “Heart To Heart”. There will be tea and cake after the formalities are over. Again, normal dress code. (See above)

Saturday 14 December Singing for the Friends of Westminster Hospital Christmas Bazaar. 10.45 – 11.30 (We will be singing at the hospital itself, NOT the Quaker Meeting House)

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. Assembling at 5.00 p.m. at the Coppleridge (Elm Hill, Motcombe, SP7 9HR). There will be a pit stop at Motcombe Grange (SP7 9HJ) at around 5.30 / 5.45 and we should arrive at the Village Hall about 6.15. We will be singing en route with the Shaftesbury Town Band as well as doing some numbers ourselves at the Coppleridge and the Grange but probably not at the Village Hall.

Wednesday 18 December Choir Christmas Party. Mulled wine and mince pies of course.

Thursday 19 December 10.45 – 11.30 Carol singing in Shaftesbury High Street with coffee and mince pies at the Arts Centre afterwards.

Christmas Day and New Year’s Day No Choir. (Two weeks off this year!)

Wednesday 8 January 2020 Grand Choir Party herald in 2020 and to celebrate 10 glorious years!

Wednesday 29th January Session with guest director Sian Croose.

… and looking much further ahead

OTHER EVENTS … LOADS OF THEM

Thursday 5 December (today) I am playing for a short recital at St. Thomas’ Church, Fisherton Street, Salisbury. 3.15 - .45. Admission free and the Christmas Tree Festival should look amazing.

until Tues 10 Dec Andrea (alto) is curating a group exhibition at the Arts Centre gallery, Perguadeo II. Seven artists of various styles and disciplines. See earlier flyer.

Fri 6 – Sun 8 December The Spirit of Christmas at Riversmeet, Gillingham. See earlier flyer.

Saturday 7 December Emily Burridge (cello) Candlelit concert for the Amazon. 6.30 pm St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury. See last week’s flyer

Sunday 8 December Wincanton Choral Society Christmas Concert. See earlier flyer.

Saturday 14 December Spectra Musica Christmas Concert. Wincanton. See earlier flyer

… also Gillingham Singers concert. St Mary’s Church. See attached flyer.

Tuesday 17 December Roses, Berries and all that is Green. Palida and the Shaftesbury Ukeleles. 8.00 p.m. Town Hall. See attached flyer

Friday 20 December Here we come a-wassailing… Gillingham Arts Workshop at Gillingham Library. 5.3-0 – 6.30. See attached flyer.

David

28 NOVEMBER 2019

November 28, 2019

Dear All,

Another great sing last night and lots and lots to report so please read this newsletter with particular assiduousness. (Not that you wouldn’t anyway.) As you know, there are a lot of coming events – please make sure you have the details in your dairies.

For most of these, our repertoire will be taken from the standard carols in the purple carol sheets / white booklets (i.e. Hark the Herald, O Come, In the Bleak, See Amid, Silent Night, O Little Town, It Came Upon, Once in Royal, Joy to the World, Away in a Manger, While Shepherds) together with some of this year’s “featured” carols / songs: Boar’s Head Carol, Deck the Hall, Hark What Means, Fait Dodo, Hosanna, Rudolf the Red-nosed Reindeer and The Truth from Above.

There have been TWO suggestions as to what good cause our carol singing on 19th December should support: Crisis, the UK national charity for homeless people, or the 2020 Tree Planting initiative led by the Shaftesbury Tree Group and Town Council. We will take a vote next week.

Finally, if you have an item or two that you would like to perform at our New Year Party please let me know over the next couple of weeks.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. Assemble by the tree / Town Hall shortly after 5.30 with a view to singing from 5.45 until Santa arrives! Normal dress code (i.e. shades of red above the waist, black / dark beneath).

Saturday 14 December Singing for the Friends of Westminster Hospital Christmas Bazaar. 10.45 – 11.30 (We will be singing at the hospital itself, NOT the Quaker Meeting House)

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. Assembling at 5.00 p.m. at the Coppleridge (Elm Hill, Motcombe, SP7 9HR). There will be a pit stop at Motcombe Grange (SP7 9HJ) and we should arrive at the Village Hall about 6.15. We will be singing en route with the Shaftesbury Town Band as well as doing some numbers ourselves at the Coppleridge and the Grange but probably not at the Village Hall.

Wednesday 18 December Choir Christmas Party. Mulled wine and mince pies of course.

Thursday 19 December 10.45 – 11.30 Carol singing in Shaftesbury High Street with coffee and mince pies at the Arts Centre afterwards.

Christmas Day and New Year’s Day No Choir. (Two weeks off this year!)

Wednesday 8 January 2020 Grand Choir Party herald in 2020 and to celebrate 10 glorious years!)

… and looking much further ahead

OTHER EVENTS

Wed 27 Nov - Tues 10 Dec Andrea (alto) is curating a group exhibition at the Arts Centre gallery, Perguadeo II. Seven artists of various styles and disciplines. We are invited to 'Meet the Artists' on Saturday 30th from 4 - 7pm. See earlier flyer.

Fri 29 – Sat 30 November Enjoy a little pre-Christmas Japanese culture in the company of Yuko (soprano) at Niwaki, Semley. See attached flyer.

Fri 6 – Sun 8 December The Spirit of Christmas at Riversmeet, Gillingham. See earlier flyer.

Saturday 7 December Emily Burridge (cello) Candlelit concert for the Amazon. 6.30 pm St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury. See attached flyer

Sunday 8 December Wincanton Choral Society Christmas Concert. See earlier flyer. Tickets available from Mary, Linda (sopranos) or Janet (tenor)

Saturday 14 December Spectra Musica Christmas Concert. Wincanton. See last week’s flyer

… also Gillingham Singers concert. See attached flyer.

Tuesday 17 December Roses, Berries and all that is Green. Palida and the Shaftesbury Ukeleles. 8.00 p.m. Town Hall. See attached flyer

Friday 20 December Here we come a-wassailing… Gillingham Arts Workshop at Gillingham Library. 5.3-0 – 6.30. See attached flyer.

SING MESSIAH FROM SCRATCH

Hilary Drake, whom many of you will know, has one alto ticket: Cost £41 to “Sing Messiah from Scratch” at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday 7th December at 7pm. A taxi is booked to leave Gillingham in the afternoon at a cost of £40.....wait and return! Please contact her if interested by this Friday at the latest by e-mail (hilarydrake@outlook.com) or phone 01747 825856.

David

14 NOVEMBER 2019

November 14, 2019

Dear All,

Good singing once more – a lovely, blended sound from everyone. I’m looking forward to next week already. As well as the dates listed below, we will possibly be singing carols on Saturday 21 December in the High Street. A decision will follow in due course. I mentioned the beautiful bluesy arrangement of In the Bleak Midwinter by the composer of Call of Wisdom, Will Todd. Here is a link – hope you enjoy it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZnOcamHg88

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Saturday 14 December Singing for the Friends of Westminster Hospital Christmas Bazaar. 10.45 – 11.30 (We will be singing at the hospital itself, NOT the Quaker Meeting House)

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). 6.30 – 6.55 p.m. on a specially erected stage outside the Town Hall. Again, more details later … much later.

OTHER EVENTS

Thurs 14 – Sat 16 November Many familiar faces will be taking part in The Daniel Jazz together with songs from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Godspell and Rock Nativity. Performances will take place tonight at St Peter’s (Shaftesbury), Gillingham Methodist Church tomorrow and St Mary’s (Motcombe) on Saturday. It would be great to see some of you there. See earlier flyer

Fri 6 – Sun 8 December The Spirit of Christmas at Riversmeet, Gillingham. See earlier flyer.

Sunday 8 December Wincanton Choral Society Christmas Concert. See attached flyer. Tickets available from Mary, Linda (sopranos) or Janet (tenor)

David

17 OCTOBER 2019

October 22, 2019

Dear All,

Last night’s singing was as good as we’ve ever sounded. Absolutely wonderful! I’m really pleased we’ve cracked “In My Life” too, with just the final “cadential progression” to do. Next week I’ll be asking you what that means so do some homework. We will also do: Breathe In, For Once in My Life, Kyrie, Good News Chariot’s Coming, My Little Cup, Throw It Away and Hamba Nigahle.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

FRIENDS OF WESTMINSTER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

As you know, our carol singing this December will be in aid of the electric vehicle(s) the

Friends are hoping to buy and that we are hoping to raise £300 for the sound system. (I said £400 last week – my mistake.) Choir member who would like to contribute towards this financially, as well as vocally of course, will be able to do so during the carol singing. Gift aid envelopes will be available too. Details about this and about membership of the Friends are in the attached pdfs. You can take out a standing order for as little as 50p a month. There is no maximum!

OTHER EVENTS

Friday 18 October Johnnie Walker at St James Church. See earlier flyer.

Saturday 19 October The Music Makers of London. “Sun, Moon and Stars” Concert at St. John’s Church, Tisbury. Tickets can be bought in advance at: https://stjohntisbury.eventbrite.com (See earlier flyer)

Friday 25 October In Search of Shangri-La. Unashamed self-promotion - I am giving an illustrated talk at 7.00 p.m. at St John’s, Enmore Green. Tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre. (See earlier flyer)

Thursday 7 November Pagoda Project at Springhead., Fontmell Magna. See attached flyer

Thurs 14 – Sat 16 November Many familiar faces will be taking part in The Daniel Jazz together with songs from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Godspell and Rock Nativity. Performances at St Peter’s (Shaftesbury) on the Thursday, Gillingham Methodist Church on the Friday and St Mary’s (Motcombe) on the Saturday. Tickets now on sale. See attached flyer.

Fri 6 – Sun 8 December The Spirit of Christmas at Riversmeet, Gillingham. See attached flyer.

David

10 OCTOBER 2109

October 13, 2019

Dear All,

Some good work yesterday. Sopranos were spectacular too! In my Life is proving much harder than expected but I think we should all give it one final shot next week. We have three quarters of it more or less under our belts so there is just a little more to do. Fingers crossed. Next week we will also do: Viva la Musica, Ya Asim (again), Breathe In, For Once in My Life, Anthem (Dvorak), Joshua, Kyrie and Travellers’ Blessing.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

JOSHUA

This is the link to the primary school from Ireland that I was telling you about. Glorious.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvXmiWE46rM&list=RDLuqhWz5rfGk&index=3

FRIENDS OF WESTMINSTER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Justine Elmendorff from the Friends spoke to us towards the end of yesterday’s choir. Most of us, I am sure, want to see our local hospital both secure and thriving. To that end, our carol singing this December will be in aid of the electric vehicle(s) the Friends are hoping to buy. As most choir members will be aware, these vehicles has been divided into various component parts with a notional figure attached to each. As is fitting for a choir such as ourselves, we are going to raise money for the sound system for which we hope to raise £400. Choir member who would like to contribute towards this financially, as well as vocally of course, will be able to do so during the carol singing. Gift aid envelopes will be available too. Justine is also keen to see the Friends membership increase. She will be bringing more application forms next week and, of course, hopes that many of us will want to sign up. You can take out a standing order for as little as 50p a month. There is no maximum!

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 12 October Cabaret. Victoria Hall, Tisbury. See earlier flyer.

… also

The Sunny Side of Swing, Shroton. See attached flyer.

Sunday 13 October Dorset Bach Cantata Club performing cantatas Nos 11 and 34 with full orchestra. 3.00 (approx.) at Sturminster Newton School. FREE.

Friday 18 October Johnnie Walker at St James Church. See attached flyer.

Thurs 14 – Sat 16 November The Daniel Jazz and songs from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Godspell and Rock Nativity. Performances at St Peter’s (Shaftesbury) on the Thursday, Gillingham Methodist Church on the Friday and St Mary’s (Motcombe) on the Saturday. Tickets on sale shortly. More details later.

NEW CHOIR CARDS AND PICTURES

Michael Bailey has produced a card of the choir singing at Gold Hill Fair. Copies cost £2.00 and Julia is taking orders. The cards are also likely to be available from various shops etc. in due course. Larger copies of the picture are also available for £10.00

26 SEPTEMBER 2019

September 27, 2019

Dear All,

More good singing last night and congratulations on finally cracking Riverside. Good to hear Run Rabbit Run (very jolly) and O Signore too, after quite a long gap. Next week we are planning on doing: Anthem (Dvorak); In My Life; O Signore; Feelin’ Groovy; One by One; I open my arms wide; Joshua; Ya Asim.

CHOIR OUTING TO COOLS FARM

A small group of us enjoyed an excellent afternoon at Cools Farm last Monday, courtesy of Maggie and Quentin Edwards, where we learned about all manner of things related to the rearing of Red Poll cattle. The weather certainly didn’t dampen our spirits in any way and the afternoon was rounded off with a delicious cream tea. A couple of photos are attached. Thankyou Maggie, Quentin and Fiona for a brilliant time.

OTHER COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

OTHER EVENTS

Friday 27 September Talk by Pen Hadow, explorer, ocean advocate and visionary, at St James’ Church 7.30 p.m. See attached flyer.

Sunday 6 October Singing workshop with Helen Porter. Shaftesbury Town Hall. See earlier week’s flyer.

Saturday 12 October Cabaret. Victoria Hall, Tisbury. See attached flyer.

NEW CHOIR CARDS AND PICTURES

TREE WALKS

Don’t forget Sue Clifford and Angela King have reprinted their first (green) Shaftesbury Tree Walk leaflet and produced a second leaflet (blue) detailing a slightly longer walk taking in Gold Hill, St James, Enmore Green and Tout Hill. Both leaflets, which have lovely maps in them, are available on Wednesday evenings and are quite FREE.

David

19 SEPTEMBER 2019

September 20, 2019

Dear All,

Congratulations on a really fantastic performance for the Town Twinning Association last weekend. So many people have thanked and complimented us as I am sure you are aware. . Everyone looked to be having a good time … mouths open wide and all eyes on Karen too! Impressive. I seemed to be having less of an effect the previous weekend at Castle Hill despite my best efforts. Jolly photos attached. Next week we will be doing: Ceremony Boogie; Ooh la la lay; Sithi Shwele / A Yele; Riverside; Run Rabbit Run; Anthem (Dvorak); In My Life; O Signore.

CHOIR OUTING TO COOLS FARM (SP3 6DB)

I have let Quentin and Maggie know that there will be about 12 of us visiting their farm next Monday (23 September). Arrive by 2.30. Cream tea at 4.30. Cost maybe about £5 per person but maybe free! (NB Although the postal address is East Knoyle, the farm is on the east side of the A 350.)

OTHER COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Sunday 15 December Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

OTHER EVENTS

Sunday 6 October Singing workshop with Helen Porter. Shaftesbury Town Hall. See last week’s flyer.

NEW CHOIR CARDS AND PICTURES

ELECTRIC CARS

Brian (bass) was very pleased at the very positive response to the suggestion that we contribute to the purchase of the electric cars for the hospital. He is going to pass this over to the person who is responsible for Friends fund raising, so watch this space.

NICK’S TUNE BOOK

Nick Crump, who many of you will know, writes:

As you may not have been aware, I have been working on a book of my own compositions for the last 4 months. It is now finished, published and ready for anyone interested in playing my music or just owning a copy of the book.

This project was initiated with the encouragement of many friends and musicians, to whom I’m really grateful. These include Paul Hutchinson, Karen Wimhurst and Tim Laycock (who has kindly written the Foreword).

I have rounded up 56 tunes from the last 30 years, many of which are played by the Hambledon Hopstep Band. The folk pieces are an eclectic mix of lively jigs, slow airs, hornpipes, waltzes and reels for dancing. There are also some trumpet solos and a 4 part harmony hymn, co-written with Tim Laycock, about Shaftesbury Abbey.

Each tune was professionally recorded at my friend Ed’s studio (Sylvafield Studios in Semley). All 56 (plus 2 bonus tracks) can be heard or downloaded free (nearly 80 mins. of mp3s), as a learning aid with the purchase of the book.

The book is A4 size and spiral bound, so it stays nice and flat on the music stand. (See photo) If you would like a copy of the book either go to my website where there is a page for ordering via PayPal or credit card www.nickcrump.co.uk/tunebook (there is a charge for P&P). Alternatively, you can arrange to call in at my house and pick one up. I will also bring some to HHB gigs and I hope to arrange other outlets in the near future.

TREE WALKS

DAVID

12 SEPTEMBER 2019

September 13, 2019

Dear All,

Thanks for a really good turn out last weekend at Castle Hill House. Over £500 was raised which is an excellent sum. I’m sure you will agree that it was particularly nice to see Ray (ex tenors) and to have him sing along with us.

We have our final performance of the season this weekend when we will be singing at the Town Twinning concert at St Peter’s Church. We start the concert (!) and our programme (in provisional order) will be: Follow the Heron, Leko Hode Nedo, Stille der Nacht, Blue Moon, Go Placidly. We will then be joined by the ukes to sing Chattanooga Choo Choo and Things. After the interval we will join the Brionne band to sing I Will Follow Him. Although the concert is not until 7.30 it is important we are able to rehearse with the Brionne Jazz Band so we are asking all members of the choir to arrive by 6.30 please. Normal dress code of course.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 14 September Entertainment for the Shaftesbury-Brionne Exchange. 7.30 p.m. St Peter’s Church. See above. Please download, share, print and display last week’s flyer if you are able.

… and looking further ahead

Monday 2 December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Sunday 15 December We have been asked whether we’d like to join the Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

CHOIR OUTING TO COOLS FARM

I have let Quentin and Maggie know that there are about 10 or 12 people who would lie to visit the farm on Monday 23 September. Arrive by 2.30. Cream tea at 4.30. Cost about £5 per person. Families and friends welcome too! If you have not already told me, please make sure you have given me your name by this weekend if you intend joining the party.

NEW CHOIR CARDS AND PICTURES

GOLD HILL FAIR

Shaftesbury Rotary Club have written as follows: Thank you very much for your support of this year’s Gold Hill Fair. It is always good to have local singers as part of the entertainment at the Fair and we hope that new members might join having seen and heard you. We were blessed with fine weather and good attendance, and this together with your help, created a great atmosphere and a successful community event. We have raised a worthwhile sum for a wide range of causes – many of them local. We could not have done this without your assistance and hope for your support again next year! David Wynn-Mackenzie, Gold Hill fair Committee, Shaftesbury Rotary.

OTHER EVENTS

Sunday 15 September A West Gallery Evensong - St John's Tisbury 6.00 p.m.

This service will be based on West Gallery music. This delightful tradition, which flourished during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, was a reaction against the formality of cathedral choral music with organ accompaniment. Local people of all abilities would play and sing. It’s an approachable style, deeply rooted in the West Country but found elsewhere, which uses instruments to accompany the singers. It takes its name from the fact that the musicians usually sat in a west gallery in the church - until the 19th century St John’s church had just such a gallery. There will be a workshop for players and singers at 4pm followed by tea. The service is at 6pm. If you would like to sing please contact Stuart Robinson stuart@stuartrobinson.co.uk or through the Parish Office. Otherwise just come and be part of the congregation!

Sunday 6 October Singing workshop with Helen Porter. Shaftesbury Town Hall. See attached flyer.

TREE WALKS

FOREIGN CURRENCY

Both Lloyds Bank and the Cancer Research shop will take any unwanted holiday money.

David

5 SEPTEMBER 2019

September 6, 2019

Dear All

It was lovely to see such a big crowd last night, and particularly nice to welcome back several old faces. We have our final performances of the season this weekend and next when we will be singing pieces from our summer programme. This Saturday we are at Castle Hill House, Bimport, for their garden party. The event starts at 2.00 p.m. and we are singing at 2.45. Please get there by 2.30 at the latest – normal dress code of course. (NB Bell Street Jazz Band will be playing from 2p.m. and there will be plenty of entertainment with ‘Taste the Tipple’ Tombola, Raffle, cream teas etc. so there would be lots to do if you got there nice and early.) The programme will consist of (in no particular order): Leko Hode Nedo; Up Above My Head; Funiculi Funicula; Isa Lei; Alleluia; Hold On; California Dreamin’; Wake Up; And So It Goes; Eternal Flame. (We will also sing Morning Has Come and / or Follow the Heron if we need a couple more.)

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 7 September Singing at Castle Hill House garden party. 2.45p.m. See above

Saturday 14 September Entertainment for the Shaftesbury-Brionne Exchange. 7.30 p.m. St Peter’s Church. Please download, share, print and display the attached flyer if you are able.

… and looking further ahead

Monday 2nd December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc. More details later.

Sunday 15 December We have been asked whether we’d like to join the Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

CHOIR OUTING TO COOLS FARM

I have let Quentin and Maggie know that there are about 10 or 12 people who would lie to visit the farm on Monday 23rd September. More details when they become available.

NEW CHOIR CARDS AND PICTURES

LICENSING OF REV. KIRSTY CLARKE

A quick reminder that members of the choir have been invited to attend a service at St James’ Church this Sunday (8 September) at 5.00 p.m. and to join in celebrations to welcome Rev. Kirsty Clarke. Thanks to Penny (alto) for offering to “formally” welcome Kirsty on our behalf.

OTHER EVENTS

I am also attaching flyers for several other items of interest that are being promoted by members of the choir: Annie’s (soprano) yoga classes; Adult Education Course in the library; Vivienne’s (soprano) exhibition at SAC; the Shaftesbury Group’s Art Fairs and “Shangri-La” - a talk I am giving about my travels in Nepal and Bhutan.

TREE WALKS

Sue Clifford and Angela King have reprinted their first (green) Shaftesbury Tree Walk leaflet and produced a second leaflet (blue) detailing a slightly longer walk taking in Gold Hill, St James, Enmore Green and Tout Hill. Both leaflets, which have lovely maps in them, are available on Wednesday evenings and are quite FREE.

15 AUGUST 2019

August 15, 2019

Dear All

Apologies to those who turned up to choir last week to find that we had to cancel it at short notice due to illness. I am pretty sure that this is the first time this has happened. However, as you already know, there will be NO CHOIR ON WEDNESDAY 28thAUGUST. Singing was a lot of fun yesterday, I hope you agree. Next week we plan to continue the good work with We Got All the Love, Balanced Be the Way, Blue Moon, Jesu Ukukhanya, Campfire Song and complete our learning of In My Life, Riverside and I Will Follow Him. Finally, next week will also be a BADGE WEDNESDAY, so come wearing a name badge – as decorative or as simple as you like – and make some new friends. (Julia will have sticky labels for anyone who forgets.)

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 7 September Singing at Castle Hill House garden party. More details asap.

Saturday 14 September Entertainment for the Shaftesbury-Brionne Exchange. St Peter’s Church. More details asap.

… and looking further ahead

Monday 2nd December Shaftesbury Christmas lights etc.

Sunday 15 December We have been asked whether we’d like to join the Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later.

… and looking much further ahead

Friday 8 May 2020 We have been asked to take part in the Shaftesbury VE Day celebrations (75 year celebration). Again, more details later … much later.

LIFT WANTED

We have a new member (Dilys in the altos) who would like to know if there is anyone in Okeford Fitzpaine or on the route between there and Shaftesbury who could give her a lift to community choir on a Wednesday evening. If you think you might be able to help could you email Julia please (juliaemarkus@gmail.com) and she will send you her contact details?

LICENSING OF REV. KIRSTY CLARKE

Members of the choir have been invited to attend a service at St James’ Church on Sunday 8 September at 5.00 p.m. and to join in celebrations to welcome Rev. Kirsty Clarke. It would be much appreciated if someone could say a few words of welcome (2 or 3 sentences max). If you would like to go and are willing to speak BRIEFLY on our behalf please let me know as soon as you can.

NEW CHOIR CARDS

DORSET AIR AMBULANCE

Penny (alto) writes: Could you please let the choir members know that they donated £55 towards the Dorset Air Ambulance sponsorship which my grand-daughter, Fleur, was doing with the rest of her National Citizens Service Team. Their aim was to raise £800 and they have almost achieved that amazing amount! So – thank everyone so very much for your wonderful generosity!

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 17 August Jazz in the Garden. Tisbury House, Tisbury. See attached flyer

Saturday 19 October Deborah Radford will be holding a choral day at St James’ Church, Shaftesbury. Let me know if you’d like me to e-mail you further details. Please note change of date.

… also

The Music Makers of London. “Sun, Moon and Stars” Concert at St. John’s Church, Tisbury. Tickets can be bought in advance at: https://stjohntisbury.eventbrite.com See attachment for further details.

TREE WALKS

David

1 AUGUST 2019

August 1, 2019

Dear All

More great singing last night. Although we have a little bit more to learn, I really feel we have cracked both Riverside and In My Life, so, congratulations are due! Next week we are planning to sing: In My Life, I Will Follow Him, Down in the River, Come and Sing, Vive la Compagnie and Campfire Song.

If you’re free next Thursday (8th) and fancy a day out in London, I am sure Karen would really love to see you at Synthetica (see below).

Finally, another reminder that there will be NO CHOIR ON WEDNESDAY 28th AUGUST.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 7 September Singing at Castle Hill House garden party. More details later.

Saturday 14 September Entertainment for the Shaftesbury-Brionne Exchange. St Peter’s Church. More details later.

… and looking further ahead

Sunday 15 December We have been asked whether we’d like to join the Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later … much later.

POSSIBLE CHOIR OUTING

This will probably be postponed until early autumn.

NEW CHOIR CARDS

OTHER EVENTS

Thursday 8 August Synthetica – a toxic entertainment from Karen and her team. The Place, 17 Duke's Rd, Kings Cross, London WC1H 9PY. (Close to Euston Station). See earlier flyer.

Saturday 19 October Deborah Radford will be holding a choral day at St James’ Church, Shaftesbury. Let me know if you’d like details. Please note change of date.

TREE WALKS

David

25 JULY 2019

July 27, 2019

Dear All

Great fun last night I hope you agree. As you know, our next public performance is not until early September so we will be taking a break from revising our summer song set for a few weeks and concentrating instead on learning a few news ones as well as revisiting some old favourites. Next week we are planning to sing: Bela Mama, Listen, Riverside, Hippopotamus Song, In My Life, I Will Follow Him, Senzeni Na.

A reminder, too, that there will be NO CHOIR ON WEDNESDAY 28th AUGUST. Please make a note of this in your diaries/ planners. I think this is possibly the first time in almost ten years that we have taken a break other than at Christmas / New Year. Make the most of it – it’s not likely to happen again.

COMING CHOIR EVENTS

Saturday 7 September Singing at Castle Hill Garden party. More details later.

Saturday 14 September Entertainment for the Shaftesbury-Brionne Exchange. St Peter’s Church. More details later.

… and looking further ahead

Sunday 15 December We have been asked whether we’d like to join the Motcombe Christmas Procession. 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. More details later … much later.

POSSIBLE CHOIR OUTING

This will probably be postponed until early autumn.

NEW CHOIR CARDS

Michael Bailey has produced a card of the choir singing at Gold Hill Fair. Copies cost £2.00 and Julia is taking orders. The cards are also likely to be available in various shops etc. in due course.

OTHER EVENTS

Saturday 27 July Jazz Picnic with Pete Allen in aid of Hope and Homes for Children. http://www.hhc-sw.com One of the greatest New Orleans style jazz clarinettists in the UK. 6pm - Dinton Village Hall .Tickets £21.00 from Chris on 01747 858016

Sunday 28 July Tea Party in aid of Hope and Homes for Children. 3-6pm at Dinton Village Hall http://www.hhc-sw.com Tickets from Chris on 01747 858016 - £10 (£5 children) to include… Scones, cream and jam PLUS croquet and classic cars to admire.

Thursday 8 August Synthetica – a toxic entertainment from Karen and her team. The Place, Duke’s Road, London. See earlier flyer.

Saturday 12 October Deborah Radford will be holding a choral day at St James’ Church, Shaftesbury. Let me know if you’d like details.

David