10 SEPTEMBER 2022

A good turn-out on Wednesday despite the atrocious weather and another good sing too.  This coming week we’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at around 9.00.  

Next time we plan to polish For Once in my Life and Travellers’ Blessing, continue Every Time I Feel the Spirit and look at Forever Young, Little Bit of Love and John Ball together with Balanced be the Way and Yenamanoa as warm-ups.  As ever, something for everyone I hope.  You won’t need words for Balanced or Yenamanoa, Forever Young, Little Bit of Love and John Ball are attached while the words of the others have all been attached recently. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 18 December Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).   

Saturday 22 April 2023 Celebration of the life of Steven Ridout.  Charlton Hall 

Saturday 10 June  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS  

Saturday 17 September 'Everywhere is somewhere'  Writing the land, with Stephen Boyce  Fee £10 including tea/coffee.   Meet at the Friends Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury at 9.45am. Discussion/coffee. Depart for walk at 10.30, return to FMH around midday and finish at about 1.00pm.   See last week’s flyer. 

Sunday 18  September  The second of the wonderful autumn organ concerts at Gillingham Methodist Church. (Other concerts on 18 2, 16 and 30 October) 

Monday 19 September  Salisbury Cathedral Choir at St Mary’s Sturminster Newton.  7.00  See last week’s flyer. 

Tuesday 20 September.  Twelfth Night at Springhead. 6.30 p.m.  See last week’s flyer. 

Saturday 24 September  ‘Sing like a Nun — for Fun!’ exploring plainchant and polyphony. £12.50 (or £11.50 Members of SAC). Booking essential via the Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  See last week’s flyer 

Saturday 1 October  Choral Day Stainer’s Crucifixion and The Daughter of Jairus.  St James’ Church.  (See earlier flyer) 

Sat 15 – Sun 16 October  Come and Sing Purcell.  Wardour.  See earlier flyer. 

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing – it was a bit thin on Wednesday again!  

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES   

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.    

LIFE-LONG LEARNING 

Japanese courses are available on Monday and Thursday evenings at Bath College under the expert tuition of Yuko (soprano)   https://www.bathcollege.ac.uk/course/search?q=Japanese 

THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman.  Check out the schedule at https://thisisalfred.com/schedule or listen on demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/219872 (fast forward 3 mins). 

-Rachel Raine talks about her fabulous silver creations and her strict use of sustainable materials 

-Singer Annmarie Lees chats reveals how the music of Stephen Sondheim and many of her musical friends have been part of her life for many years 

-Photographer David Joy talks about leaving a successful career to follow his creative dreams 

DAVID

20 AUGUST 2022

Congratulations to those of you who hot footed from the G&S Show to round off their day with a good sing.    This coming week we’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at around 9.00.  Although we didn’t manage it last week, if the weather is good, we might just sing outside again.   It might be worth bringing a jumper just in case.   

Next time we plan to polish Can’t buy me love and look at Travellers’ Blessing (both held over from last time), complete The Red Kalyna and have a look at I Wish I Knew How, Walk a Mile in My Shoes and Every Time I Feel the Spirit together with Come and Sing and We Got All the Love as warm-ups.  As ever, something for everyone I hope.  Words of Every Time and I Wish are attached, the others have either been attached recently or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.     

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).   

Saturday 22 April 2023 Celebration of the life of Steven Ridout.  Charlton Hall 

Saturday 10 June  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS  

Sunday 4 September  The first of the wonderful autumn organ concerts at Gillingham Methodist Church.  See last week’s flyer.  (Other concerts on 18 September, 2, 16 and 30 October)  

Saturday 24 September  ‘Sing like a Nun — for Fun!’ exploring plainchant and polyphony. Royal School of Church Music tutor David Beeby will conduct a workshop at St Peter’s Church.  No music knowledge needed, just a willingness to join in and discover the earliest development of western music.  £12.50 (or £11.50 Members of SAC). Booking essential via the Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  

Saturday 1 October  Choral Day Stainer’s Crucifixion and The Daughter of Jairus.  St James’ Church.  (See corrected flyer, attached. 

Sat 15 – Sun 16 October  Come and Sing Purcell.  Wardour.  See earlier flyer. 

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.   

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES   

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.   

THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman.  Visit https://thisisalfred.com/schedule for a list of show times for the week 15 August or listen on demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/210737 (fast forward 2 minutes). 

-Strolling photographer Philip Galvan tells Jeanette more about his career and his travels.  And he has a number of useful tips for aspiring photographers. 

-Anya Noakes tells Jeanette all about her artist father Michael Noakes who painted many famous personalities and was a royal favourite. 

-Dancer Erica Phillips chats about her love of tap dancing and reveals the many benefits it offers for all ages 

 David

13 AUGUST 2022

A good sing last Wednesday and great fun to perform “I’m Alive” outdoors to our small but hugely appreciative audience.  Lovely to make a start on The Red Kalyna too.  Thankyou Halyna for introducing it to us; I for one am looking forward to the next bit this coming week.   

We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00 so, if you are off to the G&S show, make sure you save enough strength to round off your day in song.  If the weather is good, we might sing outside again.   It might be worth bringing a jumper just in case.   

Next time we plan to polish Can’t buy me love (a bit rushed last time I think), continue The Red Kalyna and Mravalzemia (held over from last time) and have a look at One heart Beating, One Man’s Hands, Traveller’s Blessing  and Up Above My Head.  As ever, something for everyone I hope.  Words of the last four are attached, the others have either been attached recently or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).  Nothing like being booked early. 

Saturday 10 June 2023!!  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS  

until Tuesday 16 August  Exhibition at Shaftesbury Arts Centre with work by Anne Louise Richards, whom many of you know, and others. 

Saturday 24 August  Growing Pains – Project Dance FREE (see last week’s newsletter) 

Sunday 4 September  The first of the wonderful autumn organ concerts at Gillingham Methodist Church.  See attached flyer.  (Other concerts on 18 September, 2, 16 and 30 October)  

Saturday 24 September  Early history of music, plainchant to polyphony (afternoon course).  St Peter’s Church.  More details later. 

Saturday 1 October  Choral Day Stainer’s Crucifixion and The Daughter of Jairus.  St James’ Church.  See attached flyer and note below. 

Sat 15 – Sun 16 October  Come and Sing Purcell. Wardour.  See last week’s flier. 

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.   

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES   

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.   

THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman.  Visit https://thisisalfred.com/schedule for a list of show times for the week 8 August or listen on demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/207726 (fast forward 4 minutes). 

-Artist Karren Burkett gives some useful hints and tips on preparing for an exhibition and remembers some of her more interesting past sales. 

-Grace Macdonald shares the excitement of being a drama student and talks about managing to keep focused on her future success. 

 -Photographer Philip Galvan shares a multitude of memories from his travels including many of the important life lessons he’s picked up along the way. 

David 

13, August 2022  

NOTE ABOUT THE STAINER CHORAL DAY ON 1 OCTOBER 

I am organizing this workshop to which members of the choir are cordially invited and Andrea has produced a wonderful flyer to advertise the event (attached).  I have identified most of the singers pictured to ask their permission but there remain three mystery faces.  My apologies if your image is being used without permission.  I did try! 

7 AUGUST 2022

We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall this coming week at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00.  If the weather is good, we might take our chairs outside – we’ve not managed it yet but who knows?  It might be worth bringing a jumper just in case.   

We plan to polish Can’t buy me love, I’m Alive as well as Dowdizenia (held over from last time), recap the first bit of Alleluia, Amen, continue Mravalzemia and have a look at Walk in Beauty and Sunshine Fire and Rain.   As an added bonus, Halyna (alto) will also begin teaching us the Ukrainian song The Red Kalyna (words attached)  Words of the others have either been attached recently or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

 COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).  Nothing like being booked early. 

Saturday 10 June 2023!!  Motcombe Fete 

 OTHER EVENTS  

Wednesday 10 August  Open Gardens at Springhead. See attached flyer. 

Saturday 24 August  Growing Pains – Project Dance FREE (see below) 

Saturday 24 September  Early history of music, plainchant to polyphony (afternoon course).  St Peter’s Church.  More details later. 

Saturday 1 October  Choral Day Stainer’s Crucifixion and The Daughter of Jairus.  St James’ Church.  More details later. 

Sat 15 – Sun 16 October  Come and Sing Purcell.  Wardour.  See attached flier. 

GROWING PAINS 

Julia writes: On Saturday 27 August there is a dance show at Sturminster Exchange which is offering FREE tickets to anyone who goes to the community choir and their friends/family. It is called Project Dance and is at 2.30 pm with performances. Information about the show is here: GROWING PAINS - Project Dance.  Some people may have seen them at The Fringe where they performed at Shaftesbury Arts Centre and were well reviewed. They're made up of 13 - 21 year olds who are training to go into dance professionally. 

If you'd like to go could you let me know and how many tickets you'd like asap? The person who called me from the company said they have plenty and are keen to give community groups like ours the chance to come along so it sounds like an opportunity worth grabbing. There'll be a variety of styles (ballet/jazz/modern/street dance etc) - they're trying to widen the appeal of dance so you can be a seasoned spectator or a newbie to this world and you should enjoy it!    

Look forward to hearing from anyone who's keen. 

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.   

  SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES   

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.   

 THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman.  Visit https://thisisalfred.com/schedule for a list of show times for the week 1 August or listen on demand at  https://player.autopod.xyz/204739 

-Jeanette visits a rehearsal for the splendid Phoenix Café Orchestra, finds out all about the origins of Palm Court Music and discovers why everyone enjoys taking part. 

-Artist Emma Mauger reveals how and why she chose to create quirky and unusual ceramics despite her long-time love of the more normal ‘run of the mill’ items. 

-And in the third and final part of the interview with Dorset musician and actor Tim Laycock, he chats about immersing himself in local folklore and shares one of his poorer career decisions. 

David

9 JULY 2022

A lot of good work last Wednesday.  It was lovely to see a few new faces too, particularly Helena from Ukraine who is now living in Fontmell Magna and who is a music teacher!  She will be teaching us a few Ukrainian songs next month.  Until then, please continue to make every effort to be with us for the next few weeks as we prepare for the Shaftesbury Fringe Festival.  We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits are available but the general consensus is that we should continue to bring our own drinks for the time being at least.   If the weather is good, we plan to take our chairs outside which has the double advantage of being more Covid secure and also provides good practice for our outdoor concert in the Abbey Gardens.  It might be worth bringing a jumper. 

Next time we plan to continue to consolidate our Fringe programme which is likely to consist of (in no particular order) Brahms Lullaby, Things, Isa Lei, Hold On, Ghafoor’s Bus, Morning has come, Follow the Heron, Harbour, John Ball, Vive la Compagnie, Bumper of Good Liquor, You’ve Got a Friend, Be Still My Soul and Alleluia.  Words of all of these (where needed) have been attached to recent emails.  Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

Finally, many, many thanks to those of you who manned our stall at the Gold Hill Festival last Sunday.  Much appreciated! 

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens.  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).  Nothing like being booked early. 

Saturday 10 June 2023!!  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS (including a few selected Fringe events too.  [Let me know of others you feel choir members might be interested in]).    

Sat 9 & Wed 13 – Sat 16 July  The Three Musketeers.  Shaftesbury Arts Centre. See earlier flyer.  

Saturday 9 July  Secrets of the Stour   A site specific production in a hidden part of Wimborne.  Music by Karen so not to be missed.   See last week’s flyer. 

Monday 11 July  Shaftesbury Orchestra at St James’ Church 8.00 p.m.  Admission Free.  Rossini’s overture ‘The Italian Girl in Algiers’ and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 4. Conducted by Arturo Serna. 

Friday 15 July  Maire Ni Chathasaigh and Chris Newman.  Irish Harp and guitar.  St Peters.  £15.00 Start time: 8.00 p.m. (Doors open 7.30 p.m.)   

Fri 15 – Sun 17 July  Art at Eype.  The exhibition involves nine artists (including Andrea [alto]) with work in a great range of techniques and styles being shown in a beautiful setting.  The artists will all be there to chat to visitors about our work. It will be worth a visit for anyone heading to the coast and Eype has a super little beach!  See attached flyer 

Sunday 17 July Shaftesbury Orchestra at Shaftesbury Arts Centre. 7.45 p.m.  Shaftesbury Orchestra presents Rossini’s overture ‘The Italian Girl in Algiers’ and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 4. Conducted by Arturo Serna.  Tickets: Adult £12. Arts Centre Members £10. Under 18’s free. Proceeds in aid of local charities. 

Wed 20 July – Tues 2 Aug  Three Colourists Exhibition.  Shaftesbury Arts Centre,  Features work by Andrea (alto) See attached flyer 

Thursday 21 July Stephen Sondheim – music and lyrics. 8.00 p.m.  St Peter’s Church. Tickets £10 from Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  See attached flyer. 

Saturday 23 July  Helen Porter, Ed Bersey and Karen - pieces for clarinet and “Heart of the Matter”.  9.30 St Peter’s 

Saturday 23 July Palida 1.30 pm Abbey Gardens.  

Saturday 23 July Rolling Harmony Tutti Frutti Saturday 7.30 St Peter’s.

Saturday 23 July Mad Hatters Tea Party at Seasons, High Street.  Connor Smith and Anne-Marie Richards will be providing the music and Richard (tenor) is the Mad Hatter.  See attached flyer 

Sunday 24 July Tunes at Teatime with the Phoenix Café Orchestra.  3.00. St James’ Church.  Admission Free.  Pass the Hat.  See attached flyer 

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.   

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES   

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.   

THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman.  Visit https://thisisalfred.com/schedule/ for a list of show times for the week 4 July or listen on demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/192890 

-Anita Horak, the owner of Shaftesbury shop Down The Steps, explains how she’s showcasing local artists, staging regular art workshops and making art materials readily available. 

-Shaftesbury resident Anya Noakes tells Jeanette all about working on BBC’s long-running series, Who Do You Think You Are and reveals that surprisingly, even some of the most famous personalities have failed to make the grade. 

-And in the second part of her interview with Simon Davison, Jeanette finds out more about his early life as a filmmaker, setting up his own company and why he’s planning to revisit one of his superheroes. 

David

2 JULY 2022

Another fun packed session last Wednesday I thought.  Please continue to make every effort to be with us for the next few weeks as we prepare for the Shaftesbury Fringe Festival.  We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits are available but the general consensus is that we should continue to bring our own drinks for the time being at least.    

Next time we plan to continue to consolidate our Fringe programme which is likely to consist of (in no particular order) Brahms Lullaby, Things, Isa Lei, Hold On, Ghafoor’s Bus, Morning has come, Follow the Heron, Harbour, John Ball, Vive la Compagnie, Bumper of Good Liquor, You’ve Got a Friend, Be Still My Soul, Alleluia, and, if the arrangement is done in time, Now Is the Hour.  Words of all of these (where needed) have been attached to recent emails.  Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

Finally, many thanks to those of you who are manning our stall at the Gold Hill Festival on Sunday.  Much appreciated! 

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens.  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).  Nothing like being booked early. 

Saturday 10 June 2023!!  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS.    

TODAY Saturday 2 July  A Concert for Ukraine.  St John’s.  Tisbury.  See earlier flyer.  

Sunday 3 July  Singing for Ukraine.  Clementina’s Garden, Wincanton. See earlier flyer.  

Wed 6 – Sat 9 and Wed 13 – Sat 16 July  The Three Musketeers.  Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  01747 854321.  See earlier flyer.  

Wed 6 – Sat 9 July  Secrets of the Stour   A site specific production in a hidden part of Wimborne.  Music by Karen so not to be missed.   See attached flyer. 

Friday 8 July  Karen highly recommends John Law (piano) and john Lloyd (sax)  at the Frome festival…..definitely worth seeing.  There’s more info and a link to booking tickets here: https://fromefestival.co.uk/event/?eventid=261 And here are a few short samples from YouTube:   Spem: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGPvU0U9O7E 

Stabat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4GmqZHlyf8 

Miserere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fbP2fs9cCk 

Lamentations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rWCcMhDPdQ 

Friday 15 July  Maire Ni Chathasaigh and Chris Newman.  Irish Harp and guitar.  St Peters.  £15.00 Start time: 8.00 p.m. (Doors open 7.30 p.m.)   

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.   

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES   

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.   

THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman.  Visit https://thisisalfred.com/schedule/ for a list of show times for the week 27 June or listen on demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/189883 (fast forward 2 minutes). 

-Jeanette drops in on a rehearsal for Shaftesbury’s Palida Choir and discovers the challenges of singing a cappella. 

-Miranda Pender talks about discovering her own unique creative flair and reveals one or two useful tips about how to really make the most of art. 

-Filmmaker and composer Simon Davison shares some useful words of advice from his fascinating experiences playing in both the music and film world. 

David

25 JUNE 2022

Another fun packed session last Wednesday I thought.  Please continue to make every effort to be with us for the next few weeks as we prepare for the Shaftesbury Fringe Festival.  We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits are available but the general consensus is that we should continue to bring our own drinks for the time being at least.    

Julia would appreciate one or two more volunteers to (wo)man our choir stall at Gold Hill on Sunday 3 July.  If you have an hour to spare, please to contact her. 

Next time we plan to consolidate our Fringe programme which is likely to consist of (in no particular order) Brahms Lullaby, Things, Can’t Buy Me Love, Isa Lei, Hold On, Ghafoor’s Bus, Morning has come, Follow the Heron, Harbour, John Ball, Vive la Compagnie, Bumper of Good Liquor, You’ve Got a Friend, Be Still My Soul, Alleluia, and, if the arrangement is done in time, Now Is the Hour.  Words of all of these (where needed) have been attached to recent emails.  Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens.  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).  Nothing like being booked early. 

Saturday 10 June 2023!!  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS.   LOTS AND LOTS OF THEM AND WITH FRINGE LISTINGS STILL TO APPEAR. 

T O D A Y - Saturday 25th June A Midsummer Night’s Dream Abbey Gardens. See earlier flyer 

also 

Gillingham Singers concert.  7.30 p.m.  Gillingham Methodist Church.  Lots of familiar faces singing Mendelssohn and Howard Goodall among others  

Thursday 30th June  Emily Burridge.  The last in the short series of lunchtime cello recitals.  1 p.m. St Peter’s Church.  Tickets £10 to include sandwiches and coffee and tickets can be booked from the Arts Centre on 01747 854321.   

Friday 1 July.  An Afternoon with Thomas Hardy.  Gillingham Library.  See attached flyer. 

also 

Palida concert in support of the Blandford Welcome Group 7.30pm St Nicholas’ Church, Durweston.  See attached flyer 

Saturday 2 July  A Concert for Ukraine.  St John’s.  Tisbury.  See earlier flyer.  

Sunday 3 July  Singing for Ukraine.  Clementina’s Garden, Wincanton. See earlier flyer.  

Wed 6 – Sat 9 and Wed 13 – Sat 16 July  The Three Musketeers.  Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  01747 854321.  See earlier flyer. 

Friday 15 July  Maire Ni Chathasaigh and Chris Newman.  Irish Harp and guitar.  St Peters.  £15.00 Start time: 8.00 p.m. (Doors open 7.30 p.m.)   See attached picture.  

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.   

THIS IS ALFRED 

Listen to Alfred Arts on 107.3FM with Jeanette Hardiman Visit https://thisisalfred.com/schedule/ for a list of show times for the week 20 June or listen on demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/187048 (fast forward 2 minutes).  This week on the show: 

 -Shaftesbury Symphony Orchestra’s very own Judy Ashwin proves that it’s never too late to start playing a musical instrument 

-Paula Andrews talks about her wonderfully unique and quirky pieces of jewellery crafted in silver and wood. 

-Teacher Deborah Chisman promotes the many benefits and joys of joining an art class 

David

18 JUNE 2022

Looking forward to being back with everyone this Wednesday.  Please continue to make every effort to be with us for the next few weeks as we prepare for the Shaftesbury Fringe Festival.  We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits available but please continue to bring your own drinks.    

Next time we plan to sing Brahms Lullaby, Things, Can’t Buy Me Love, Isa Lei (all attached recently) and, if the arrangement is done in time, Now Is the Hour.  Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens.  

Sunday 18 December! Motcombe Christmas procession (carols + donkey) 5pm (alongside the band).  Nothing like being booked in early. 

Saturday 10 June 2023!!  Motcombe Fete 

OTHER EVENTS.    

Thursday 23rd June  Herb Walk See earlier flyer.  

Saturday 25th June A Midsummer Nights Dream Abbey Gardens See earlier flyer 

Thursday 30th June  Emily Burridge.  The short series of lunchtime cello recitals continues at 1pm in St Peter’s Church on market days. Tickets £10 to include sandwiches and coffee and tickets can be booked from the Arts Centre on 01747 854321.   

Saturday 2 July  A Concert for Ukraine.  St John’s.  Tisbury.  See earlier flyer.  

Sunday 3 July  Singing for Ukraine.  Clementina’s Garden, Wincanton. See earlier flyer.  

Wed 6 – Sat 9 and Wed 13 – Sat 16 July  The Three Musketeers.  Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  See earlier flyer.  

FOODBANK  

Keep the trolley filled to overflowing.  A wonderful effort.    

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES  

As you know, Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10.  

THIS IS ALFRED 

On Alfred Arts, during the weeks 6th and 13th June, Jeanette interviewed Shaftesbury-based composer and musician Sadie Harrison in two interviews.   Sadie has not only previously worked with Afghan musicians but is also, currently working on compositions for disabled pianists who can only play with one hand because of missing limbs, the effects of a stroke or maybe arthritis.  She’s an extremely interesting character.   

You can listen to part one of the interview https://player.autopod.xyz/181311 and fast forward 11 minutes 

You can listen to part two of the interview on https://player.autopod.xyz/184172 and fast forward 17 minutes 

Karen and David 

18, June 2022  

22 MAY 2022

Fantastic turn out last week – just like old times; our programme for the two Jubilee performances is going to be marvellous!   Please continue to make every effort to be with us over the coming weeks. We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall again this coming Wednesday at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits available but please continue to bring your own drinks.   

Next time we plan to sing through our entire programme for the Jubilee which will be will be more or less the same for both events and drawn from the following songs:  

Be Still My Soul; A Bumper of Good Liquor; Follow the Heron; Ghafoor’s Bus; Harbour; Heart to Heart; Hold On; If There Is To Be Peace; John Ball; Jug of Punch; Morning Has Come; My Little Cup; A Place Called England; Vive la Compagnie; Viva la Musica; You’ve Got a Friend; Suo Gan. The words of all these have either been attached to recent e-mails or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.   

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete.  1.15-1.45. 

Sunday 5 June Singing in the Abbey Gardens   11.00 

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens. 

Dress for the performances will be shades of red above the waist (no patterns please) and dark or black below.  For the two jubilee events, feel free to add a bit of red, white and blue decoration. 

FOODBANK 

Amazing response last week.  The trolley was almost filled to overflowing.   

SHAFTESBURY SKETCHES 

Elizabeth (tenor) has  produced a lovely book of sketches which she is selling to raise money for the Westminster Hospital’s League of Friends.  RRP is £12.50 but Elizabeth will be selling them at choir at a special price of £10. 

OTHER EVENTS.   

Saturday 21 May Celebration of Song.  Bradford-on-Avon. See last week’s flyer.  A longish way to go perhaps but it is being run by the composer of Be Still My Soul.  Expect music of a similar genre and lots more besides. 

Friday 27 May Stone Songs at Salisbury Cathedral – featuring Yuko, Clare and Marie to name but a few.  Tickets are selling fast – the 7.00 p.m. performance is already sold out.  https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/whats-on/festival/stone-songs-22/ 

Friday 3 June  Tea at the Ritz – with the Phoenix Café Orchestra.  St Peter’s Church.  Doors open at 3.00 p.m.  See attached flyer. 

Saturday 11 June  Whispering Willows at Springhead, Fontmell Magna.  See attached flyer. 

LUNCHTIME RECITALS 

The short series of lunchtime cello recitals continues at 1pm in St Peter’s Church on market days. Tickets £10 to include sandwiches and coffee and tickets can be booked from the Arts Centre on 01747 854321.    June 9th  Nicholas Cooper; June 30th  Emily Burridge.  (June 9th will feature two [I think] premieres written by Karen too.  Not to be missed.) 

ALFRED ARTS 

This week’s Alfred Arts features: 

-Shaftesbury-based soprano Julia Blinko, who is a longtime member of the Bach Choir 

-Local photographer James Huge 

-Anya Noakes who attended the recent BAFTA TV Awards 

Listen live on Alfred Community Radio 107.3FM (schedule is https://thisisalfred.com/schedule) or Listen on Demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/172900 (fast forward approximately 4 minutes). 

Next week, one of the guests will be Judy Ashwin from Shaftesbury Symphony Orchestra. 

 David   

21, May 2022 

 PS NEED CHEERING UP? 

If you ever feel in need of  a bit pf cheering up just click on this.  Thanks to Jackie (tenor) for the link.  It’s an absolute joy. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-Pn4usTSi8&feature=youtu.be 

14 MAY 2022

Another good turn out last week and more really good singing.  Our programme for our two Jubilee performances is shaping up very well indeed – congratulations to all!   Please continue to make every effort to be with us over the coming weeks. We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall again this coming Wednesday at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits available but please continue to bring your own drinks.    

Next time we plan to consolidate our programme for the Jubilee which will be will be more or less the same for both events and drawn from the following songs, which I hope contains something for everyone:  

Be Still My Soul; A Bumper of Good Liquor; Follow the Heron; Ghafoors Bus; Harbour; Heart to Heart; Hold On; If There Is To Be Peace; John Ball; Jug of Punch; Morning Has Come; My Little Cup; A Place Called England; Vive la Compagnie; Viva la Musica; You’ve Got a Friend; Suo Gan. The words of all these have either been attached to recent e-mails or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.    

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete.  1.15-1.45. 

Sunday 5 June Singing in the Abbey Gardens   11.00 

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens. 

FOODBANK 

Don’t forget that Sue (alto) will be bringing in a shopping trolley each week so that we can resume our weekly collections for the foodbank.   

OTHER EVENTS . LOADS OF THEM 

Saturday 14 May Gillian, our friend from Norfolk whom we got to know during our Zoom sessions, recommends the PlayGC Theatre Company who will be performing their play “The Letter of Last Resort” at Donhead St Andrew Church at 3.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m.  See http://www.playgc.co.uk/ for details. 

Sunday 15 May Free concert with choir and full orchestra at Sturminster Newton High School.  Bach Cantatas Nos. 20 and 24.  4.30. p.m. 

Wednesday 18 May Private viewing of Vivienne’s (soprano) exhibition at the Arts Centre.  Why not drop in before choir?  (5.30 – 7.00)  See last week’s flyer.  The exhibition itself runs from 18th – 24th. 

Thursday 19th May Shaftesbury 2030 – Choosing Our Future.  A FREE event, from 5.45 onwards at Shaftesbury School.  See last week’s flyer or speak to Karen for more details.  Talks, discussions, shorts films and a FREE MEAL! 

Saturday 21 May Celebration of Song.  Bradford-on-Avon. See attached flier.  A longish way to go perhaps but it is being run by the composer of Be Still My Soul.  Expect music of a similar genre and lots more besides. 

Friday 27 May Stone Songs at Salisbury Cathedral – featuring Yuko, Clare and Marie to name but a few.  Tickets are selling fast – the 7.00 p.m. performance is already sold out.  https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/whats-on/festival/stone-songs-22/ 

Friday 3 June  Tea at the Ritz – with the Phoenix Café Orchestra.  St Peter’s Church.  Doors open at 3.00 p.m.  More details soon. 

LUNCHTIME RECITALS 

The short series of lunchtime cello recitals continues at 1pm in St Peter’s Church on market days. Tickets £10 to include sandwiches and coffee and tickets can be booked from the Arts Centre on 01747 854321.    June 9th  Nicholas Cooper; June 30th  Emily Burridge.  (June 9th will feature two [I think] premieres written by Karen too.  Not to be missed.) 

ALFRED ARTS 

Alfred Arts is a weekly 30 minute show presented by Jeanette Hardiman on Alfred Community Radio 107.3FM where she interviews individuals involved in painting, drama, music, photography and other strands of the local Arts scene.  You can listen to the show in a variety of ways: Check the schedule  https://thisisalfred.com/schedule  and tune in ‘live’ to the show for the week 9 May on 107.3FM OR Listen On Demand at https://player.autopod.xyz/170050 

This week’s show features 3 stalwarts of the local arts scene: Singer Samantha - who has an extremely diverse repertoire; Susan Grant - a key player at Shaftesbury Arts Centre and in many other musical areas; Gary Cook - a renowned artist who has a passion for our planet 

Next week’s show will feature, amongst others, Julia Blinko, a well-renowned soprano and a member of the Bach Choir.  So please do tune in! 

The show aims to showcase the wonderful wealth of artistic talent in Shaftesbury and the SP7 area in general.   So, if you would like to participate - or you know someone who might be suitable, please contact Jeanette Hardiman on arts@thisisalfred.com.   Meanwhile, Jeanette will be sharing details of the latest interviewees with us on a regular basis.

David   

14, May 2022 

7 MAY 2022

What a wonderful turn out on Wednesday … almost like old times.  Great singing too – especially with You’ve Got a Friend which sounded marvellous.  Please continue to make every effort to be with us over the coming weeks to prepare for or two Jubilee performances.  We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall again next Wednesday at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00. As ever, posh biscuits available but please continue to bring your own drinks.   

Next time we plan to continue work on our programme for the jubilee of course. (The programme will be more or less the same for both events.) We will, with luck, polish A Bumper of Good Liquor, You’ve Got a Friend, Suo Gan, If there is to be Peace and Be Still My Soul (these last two held over from last time), look at Forever Young and Viva la Compagnie (also held over from last time), and revisit John Bull. The words of this are attached, the others were either attached to recent e-mails or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.   

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete.  1.15-1.45. 

Sunday 5 June Singing in the Abbey Gardens   11.00 

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens. 

FOODBANK 

Starting this coming week, Sue (alto) will be bringing in a shopping trolley so that we can resume our weekly collections for the foodbank.  Thankyou Sue. 

OTHER EVENTS 

Sunday 8 May  The Shaftesbury Refugee Group are promoting a quiz night with a Syrian supper on Sunday 8 May in Motcombe Memorial Hall.  See earlier flyer for details.  

Thursday 12 May Intimate Notes – Cello recital.  St Peter’s Church 1.00 p.m.  See earlier flyer for details.  

Friday 13 May  Celebrity Organ Recital for Ukraine.  Gillingham Methodist Church.  See last week’s flyer for details.  

Saturday 14 May Gillian, our friend from Norfolk whom we got to know during our Zoom sessions, recommends the PlayGC Theatre Company who will be performing their play “The Letter of Last Resort” at Donhead St Andrew Church at 3 p.m. and 7.00 p.m.  See http://www.playgc.co.uk/ for details. 

Wednesday 18 May Private viewing of Vivienne’s (soprano) exhibition at the Arts Centre.  Why not drop in before choir?  (5.30 – 7.00)  See attached flyer.  The exhibition itself runs from 18th – 24th. 

Thursday 19th May Shaftesbury 2030 – Choosing Our Future.  A FREE event, from 5.45 onwards at Shaftesbury School.  See attached flyer or speak to Karen for more details.  Talks, discussions, shorts films and a FREE MEAL! 

Friday 27 May Stone Songs at Salisbury Cathedral – featuring Yuko, Clare and Marie to name but a few.  Tickets are selling fast – the 7.00 p.m. performance is already sold out.  https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/whats-on/festival/stone-songs-22/ 

Friday 3 June  Tea at the Ritz – with the Phoenix Café Orchestra.  St Peter’s Church.  Doors open at 3.00 p.m. 

ALBERT ARTS 

Alfred Arts is a weekly 30 minute show presented by Jeanette Hardiman on Alfred Community Radio 107.3FM where she interviews individuals involved in painting, drama, music, photography and other strands of the local Arts scene.  You can listen to the show in a variety of ways: 

- Check the schedule  https://thisisalfred.com/schedule  and tune in ‘live’ to the show on 107.3FM or via ‘Listen Live’ at www.thisisalfred.com 

-‘Listen again’ to any of the shows at https://thisisalfred.com/the-arts-show 

Jeanette’s previous interviewees have included ‘yours truly’ (sadly no longer available on ‘Listen Again’ – devastating news), Karen https://player.autopod.xyz/149349, The Community Choir https://player.autopod.xyz/146567 and Arturo Serna, Conductor of The Shaftesbury Symphony Orchestra  https://player.autopod.xyz/143711 

The show aims to showcase the wonderful wealth of artistic talent in Shaftesbury and the SP7 area in general.   

So, if you would like to participate - or you know someone who might be suitable, please contact Jeanette Hardiman on arts@thisisalfred.com.   Meanwhile, Jeanette will be sharing details of the latest interviewees with us on a regular basis. 

U3A HOLIDAY IN NORTH WALES 

Steve (bass) is organising a trip to North Wales in September.  See last week’s flyer for details.  

David   

7, May 2022 

STOP PRESS 

Don’t forget to watch last Monday’s “Imagine” programme on BBC1 with Alan Yentob.  It is about an absolutely dazzling young musician called Jacob Collier.  You will be blown away I promise you.   

23 APRIL 2022

Good turn-out last week – bodes well for our forthcoming jubilee performances at Motcombe on Saturday 4 June and in the Abbey Gardens on Sunday 5 June.    Please continue to make every effort to be with us over the coming weeks.  We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall again this coming week at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 of course and finishing at 9.00. Posh biscuits available but please continue to bring your own drinks.   

This week we plan to continue work on our potential programme for the jubilee. (The programme will be more or less the same for both.) We will, with luck, complete You’ve Got a Friend and have a look at Jug of Punch (both held over from last time), polish If there is to be peace and Be Still My Soul and work on Suo Gan*, Plovi Barko*, A Bumper of Good Liquor*, Follow the Heron* and Ghafoor’s Bus* together with I’m Gonna Sing, Sing, Sing as a warm-up. Words of those marked * are attached, the others were either attached to recent e-mails or you won’t need them. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.  Words of the others, where needed, were attached recently.   

COMING CHOIR EVENTS  

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete.  (NB We will not be singing at the event organized on 2 June.) 

Sunday 5 June Singing in the Abbey Gardens    

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens. 

OTHER EVENTS 

Sunday 8 May  The Shaftesbury Refugee Group are promoting a quiz night with a Syrian supper on Sunday 8 May in Motcombe Memorial Hall.  See attached flyer for details.  

Thursday 12 May Intimate Notes – Cello recital.  St Peter’s Church 1.00 p.m.  See attached flyer for details.  

Saturday 14 May Gillian, our friend from Norfolk whom we got to know during our Zoom sessions, recommends the PlayGC Theatre Company who will be performing their play “The Letter of Last Resort” at Donhead St Andrew Church at 3 p.m. and 7.00 p.m.  See http://www.playgc.co.uk/ for details. 

U3A HOLIDAY IN NORTH WALES 

Steve (bass) is organising a trip to North Wales in September.  See attached flyer for details.  

 David   

2 APRIL 2022

Although numbers were down last week, it was good to see everyone there making a few new friends as a consequence of it being a “Badge Wednesday”.  Sue (alto), at home with Covid, also appreciated our recording of Happy Birthday which we sent her for her sixtieth!   We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall again this coming week at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 of course and finishing at 9.00. Posh biscuits available but please continue to bring your own drinks.   

 This week we plan to continue You’ve Got a Friend, Eternal Flame and April Rain Song (words of these three were attached recently) and have a look at Ooh-la-la-lay, Kyrie (no words needed for these), A Place Called England, Ezulwini and Sakura Sakura which Yuko will be teaching to us. Words of these last three are attached. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can.  Words of the others, where needed, were attached recently.   

SING FOR UKRAINE 

Two weeks ago, the composer John Rutter wrote:  

 “How can a composer respond to a global tragedy? By writing music is the most obvious thing”  He continues, “Like, everybody, I’ve been shocked and dismayed by the events of recent days and the first thing I wanted to do was to write some music” 

The result is his “Ukrainian Prayer” written for unaccompanied mixed voice choir.  Next Saturday morning (9th April) you are invited to join us for an hour or so at St. Peter’s Church in Shaftesbury to learn this beautiful and deeply moving piece.  Music will be made available at the door or you can download the attachment from this e-mail.  The music will be taught by rote so you do not need to be a fluent reader; all ranges and abilities will be very welcome. (St. Peter’s is on Shaftesbury High Street, next to the Town Hall at the top of Gold Hill.)  We will be meeting for a prompt 10 o’clock start and running on until 11 or maybe a little  after.  There is no charge although there will be a retiring collection, with every penny received going to the Disasters and Emergencies Committee’s Ukrainian Appeal.  

Please spread the word – it’s open to all – not just members of the community choir.  There’s no need to register … just turn up.  

OTHER COMING CHOIR EVENTS Details later 

Thursday 2 June (Jubilee BH)  Singing as part of a nationally organised event.  (We are probably going to be singing in the Abbey Gardens on the Sunday instead, but this is yet to be confirmed) 

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete. 

Sunday 5 June Singing in the Abbey Gardens    

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens. 

OTHER COMING EVENTS  

Sunday 3 April.  5.00 pm Shaftesbury Orchestra. Schubert, Grieg and Schumann. Shaftesbury Arts Centre.  Proceeds in aid the Arts Centre Music Project. Tickets, £12 (£10 for SAC members) 

Sunday 10 April  3.15  Phoenix Café Orchestra at Motcombe Memorial Hall in aid of Read. Tickets £10 to include refreshments from Motcombe Community Shop, Mere Library OR via e-mail on EITHER events.regs@gmail.com OR events.rebvn@gmail.com.  Alternatively you can ring Lydia on 07748 981935 

David

5 MARCH 2022

It was a real homecoming back in the Town Hall this week.  Lovely to see so many smiling faces.   We’ll be meeting in the Town Hall again this coming week at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 and finishing at 9.00.  There will be more posh biscuits available (but no sausage rolls I’m afraid) but bring continue to bring your own drink please.  The kitchen will NOT be open. Although the heating will be on, the doors and windows will be open so blankets are still advised!   A pair of woolly gloves was left behind last week; I’ll bring them with me this coming week if you’d like to claim them, otherwise I’ll take them to a charity shop. 

 This week we plan to polish Gospodi, continue You’ve Got a Friend, If there is to peace in the world and Hanacpachap Cusicuinin (held over from last time), and have a look at Love is Here A Yele Mama / Sithi Shwele (no words needed), and Jug of Punch (words attached). Words of the others were all attached last week or the week before. Although Julia will have some sets with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can. 

 COMING CHOIR EVENTS Details MUCH later 

Thursday 2 June (Jubilee BH)  Singing (outside the Town Hall I think) as part of a nationally organised event 

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete.  .   

Sunday 24 July (Shaftesbury Fringe) 11.00.  Singing in the Abbey Gardens. 

 OTHER COMING EVENTS  

11- 13 March SHAFTESBURY BOOK FESTIVAL  Have a look here to check out the line up: www.shaftesbury book festival.com.  

Sunday 13 March  Organ recital by Chris Mahon, St. James Church.  3.00-4.00.  Admission free.  Collection for DEC (Disasters and Emergencies Committee) for Ukraine 

Sunday 3 April.  5.00 pm Shaftesbury Orchestra. Schubert - Overture to Rosamunde; Grieg - Peer Gynt Suite No. 1; Schumann - Symphony No.3. Shaftesbury Arts Centre 

Proceeds in aid the Arts Centre Music Project. Tickets, £12 or £10 for Shaftesbury Arts Centre members, 

Sunday 10 April  3.15  Phoenix Café Orchestra at Motcombe Memorial Hall in aid of Read Easy – helping adults to learn to read.  Tickets £10 to include refreshments.  See attached flyer. 

UKRAINE 

Russia’s war against Ukraine. What can you do to support Ukraine & Ukrainians?  

If you’ve been feeling impotent the last few days when hearing the news from Ukraine and want some helpful information then the link below will be of interest. It was sent by a friend of Angela (alto) who has lived and worked in Ukraine and knows it well.  https://ukrainianinstitute.org.uk/russias-war-against-ukraine-what-can-you-do-to-support-ukraine-ukrainians/

David   

5 March 2022 

12 FEBRUARY 2022

Lovely to see some new faces last week. The recording of “Rongo” we made for Sue, Marie and Sam (all suffering from the wretched Omicron) sounds pretty good and was well received and I am certain is playing / has played a significant part in their recovery. I’m attaching an MP3 to this newsletter.

We’ll be meeting again this week at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30 when we plan to polish Balanced Be the Way and A Bumper of Good Liquor (the latter held over from last time), continue with our new arrangement of You’ve Got a Friend in Me* which is going very well, and have a look at Let the Sunshine, A Place Called England* and Hanacpachap Cusicuinin* (These last two will be familiar to those who sang with us on Zoom.) Words of those marked * were attached last week and you won’t need the words of the other ones. Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can. 

 As well as the usual face masks, social distancing and hand sanitizing of course, we would really appreciate it if you were to take a lateral flow test at some point on the day and not come at all if you are ill or know you should self-isolate.  As regulars will tell you, despite the cold, St Peter’s is a lovely place to sing in and, of course, the uplift you get from making music in a group is pretty hard to beat. And don’t forget blankets, hot water bottles and thermos flasks all add to the fun.    

  SHAFTESBURY BOOK FESTIVAL 11- 13 MARCH 

Something exciting happening in Shaftesbury from 11-13 March. You may already have heard ... a brand new book festival called Reading the Land is being launched. It's full of fascinating speakers and there are children's workshops too. After being postponed by 18 months - and slimmed down - the team and authors are raring to go and hope you can come.   

Have a look here to check out the line up: www.shaftesbury book festival.com. I recommend buying your tickets soon; one of the talks has already sold out and others are heading that way. Please spread the word so others don't miss out too. I've attached two flyers in case they're useful. 

 OTHER COMING EVENTS 

Sunday 14 February (this Sunday) Free informal concert of two Bach cantatas  (choir + full orchestra)  4.30 p.m. Sturminster Newton High School 

Saturday 4 June  (Jubilee BH Weekend) Motcombe Village Fete.  Details MUCH later.   

 We will also be giving some more thought to the Queen’s Jubilee (Jubbly?) Weekend and the Shaftesbury Fringe in the not too distant future. 

 David   

12 February 2022 

16 JANUARY 2022

Lovely, lively singing last week I thought.  Bravo!  We’ll be meeting again this coming Wednesday of course, again at St Peter’s and at our usual time of 7.15 for 7.30.  We plan to sing: Listen, Evo Banke* and Haere Mai* (all held over from last week), continue A Bumper of Good Liquor (with words by Sheridan whatever Karen would have us believe!), recap Go Placidly* and California Dreamin'* and have a look at Walk a Mile in My Shoes and Be Still My Soul.  As ever, something for everyone we hope.  Words of Be Still and Bumper are attached to this newsletter.  Those marked * were in last week’s newsletter.  No words are needed for the other songs.  Although Julia will have some sets of words with her, please do print them out yourselves if you possibly can. 

 As well as the usual protocols of face masks, social distancing and hand sanitizing, we would really appreciate it if you were to take a lateral flow test at some point on the day as a precautionary measure and, of course, not come at all if you are ill or know you should self-isolate.  And don’t forget blankets, hot water bottles and thermos flasks all add to the fun. 

 If you’ve been a regular over the last few months you will be aware that numbers have fallen – hopefully temporarily.  If you know someone in the choir whose attendance has lapsed do give them a ring and encourage them to come along on Wednesday if they feel that the time is right.  Despite the cold, St Peter’s is a lovely place to sing in and, of course, the uplift you get from making music in a group is pretty hard to beat.  

 COMING EVENTS 

Thurs 27 – Sun 30 Jan & Wed 2 – Sat 5 Feb   Little Red Riding Hood (starring several familiar faces)  See attached flyer. 

Saturday 4 June  Motcombe Village Fete.  Details MUCH later 

 David   

16 January 2022 

10 November 2021

About 20 of us entertained the runners and their families on Sunday morning for the Motcombe Santa Fun Run and had a great time despite the biting wind (we were singing outside of course).  I thought we sounded absolutely excellent – just what the runners wanted I’m sure.  I received this message from the organisers: 

Thank you so much to you and the choir this morning for your support.  Apologies for the organised chaos, but other than a few behind the scenes stresses, we thought there was a fantastic atmosphere.   If you could pass on the Santa Run Team's gratitude at your next rehearsal it would be much appreciated. You might also like to let them know that there were just over 400 people in attendance and we raised a whopping £4,000 all going back into the primary school to fund extra-curricular activities including a forest school.  

We are getting together for the next TWO Wednesday evenings (15th and 22nd) when we will continue polishing things and looking at a couple more traditional carols and songs.  No additional words needed though.  Mulled wine, mince pies and a Covid safe game or two on 22nd too – BRING A MUG IF YOU WANT ANY WINE THOUGH!  We will then take a break for a couple of weeks and resume in the new year.  We will continue to have as many doors and windows open as possible so bring a blanket if you like – quite a few people do already and they look really snug!  Hope you can join us. (Philippa’s recording of “White Christmas” is attached.) 

CHOIR COMING EVENTS: 

Sunday 19 December 5.30 p.m. - MOTCOMBE DONKEY PROCESSION (We’ve been invited to join in the procession although we will not be singing as a choir.) 

Saturday 4 June  Motcombe Village Fete.  Details MUCH later 

 OTHER EVENTS: 

Sunday 12 December - Shaftesbury Orchestra concert in Shaftesbury Town Hall (3.00 p.m.).  The programme will be: Mozart - Overture to The Marriage of Figaro; Saint-Saens - Violin Concerto No. 3  - soloist Piotr Kopec; Haydn - Symphony No. 101, 'The Clock' 

Tuesday 21 December – Gillingham Arts Workshop Christmas entertainment.  5.00 p.m. Gillingham Library (see attached flyer) 

David   

26 NOVEMBER

ooking forward to seeing as many of you as possible this Wednesday for our first concert of the season.  Please arrive at The Olive Bowl by 2 o’clock.  Normal dress code – i.e. shades of red above the waist, dark or black below.  No patterns and no trainers etc.  You will need either your Bethlehem Carol Sheet or white carol booklet together with the words of our “featured carols” unless you know them.  Please don’t bring the words of White Christmas – it is to be sung FROM MEMORY! It all sounded great on Wednesday so I really hope we can put on a good show. (Do check your availability for 5th and 19th December as well.) 

 We are getting together next Wednesday evening too of course when we will be polishing one or two things, looking at a couple more traditional carols, the Durweston version of Hark the Herald, Hosanna and a harmony setting of White Christmas.  No words needed. 

We would appreciate it if you were to take a lateral flow test (free from chemists shops and elsewhere) at some point on the day as a precautionary measure and, of course, not come at all if you are ill or know you should self-isolate. 

CHOIR COMING EVENTS: 

Wednesday 1 December – The S&G U3A have invited us to sing for about 30 / 40 minutes after their Christmas lunch at the Olive Bowl in Gillingham.  We will be singing at about 2.15.  PLEASE ARRIVE BY 2.00. 

Sunday 5 December  10.00 a.m - THE GREAT MOTCOMBE SANTA RUN 

It is anticipated that the runners will get back to the village hall from about 10.30.  The festivities then last for about an hour, so all done by 11.30.  

Sunday 19 December 5.30 p.m - MOTCOMBE DONKEY PROCESSION 

Saturday 4 June  Motcombe Village Fete.  Details MUCH later 

OTHER EVENTS: 

Saturday 27 November – East Stour Christmas Market and lunch (see attached flier) 

Sat 27 – Mon 29 November – Donhead Art Exhibition.  At least two of our members are exhibiting. (see attached flier) 

Saturday 4 December – A West Country Christmas.  Gillingham Singers concert at Wyke Primary School (Broad Robin) 7.30 p.m. (see attached flier) 

Sunday 5 December – A Prelude to Christmas.  Pilgrim Singers, Wincanton (see attached flier) 

Sunday 12 December - Shaftesbury Orchestra's next concert will be at Shaftesbury Town Hall (3.00 p.m.).  The programme will be: Mozart - Overture to The Marriage of Figaro; Saint-Saens - Violin Concerto No. 3  - soloist Piotr Kopec; Haydn - Symphony No. 101, 'The Clock' 

Tuesday 21 December – Gillingham Arts Workshop Christmas entertainment.  5.00 p.m. Gillingham Library 

David

20 NOVEMBER 2021

More really great singing on Wednesday.  I’m attaching the recording we made of Hold On – hope you enjoy it.    

 We’ve just about got our Christmas repertoire sorted – a couple more standard carols to look at + Fait Dodo, Ding Dong, Come Tune Your Cheerful Voice, Boar’s Head, Masters in this Hall, Carols of Adoration and While Shepherds as “featured carols”.  We’ll be singing a representative selection of these at our various Christmas do’s.   Do check your availability for 1st, 15th and 19th December when I hope most of us can take part in the various events we have planned.  If you’ve not got them already, please note that I’m attaching the words of the ones that aren’t in the purple carol leaflets or (for ATB music readers) the little white booklets once more.  Please print out your own words if you possibly can 

CHOIR COMING EVENTS: 

Wednesday 1 December – The S&G U3A have invited us to sing for about 30 / 40 minutes after their Christmas lunch at the Olive Bowl in Gillingham.  We will be singing at about 2.15. 

Sunday 5 December  10.00 a.m - THE GREAT MOTCOMBE SANTA RUN 

It is anticipated that the runners will get back to the village hall from about 10.30.  The festivities then last for about an hour, so all done by 11.30.  

Sunday 19 December 5.30 p.m - MOTCOMBE DONKEY PROCESSION 

Saturday 4 June  Motcombe Village Fete.  Details MUCH later 

OTHER EVENTS: 

Saturday 4 December – A West Country Christmas.  Gillingham Singers concert at Wyke Primary School (Broad Robin) 7.30 p.m. 

Sunday 12 December - Shaftesbury Orchestra's next concert will be at Shaftesbury Town Hall (3.00 p.m.).  The programme will be: Mozart - Overture to The Marriage of Figaro; Saint-Saens - Violin Concerto No. 3  - soloist Piotr Kopec; Haydn - Symphony No. 101, 'The Clock' 

Tuesday 21 December – Gillingham Arts Workshop Christmas entertainment.  5.00 p.m. Gillingham Library 

 ARTS CENTRE CHRISTMAS CARDS 

Various local artists including Andrea (alto) are selling cards in aid of SAC.  Please see attached flier. 

 David   

11 OCTOBER 2021

Dear All, 

 We will be in St. James’ Church this Wednesday at 6.45 (for 7.00) until 8.30.   

Please be super-safe and …   

• wear face masks until you are seated in the church

• bring some hard-surface wipes to wipe down your seat, before and after the rehearsal

• sanitise your hands when you arrive (Julia has arranged for a couple of squirters to be on hand)

We would also REALLY appreciate it if you were to take a lateral flow test (free from chemists shops and elsewhere) at some point on the day as a further precautionary measure and not come at all if you are ill or know you should self-isolate. 

We will, of course, have as many doors and windows open as possible and we’ll continue to do without refreshments for a while yet.  

 Although we haven’t yet made our minds up whether or not St. Peter’s or St. James’ is the better venue, our recent questionnaire shows that the huge majority of the choir are happy to move indoors with appropriate safety measures in place.   However, we obviously understand and respect the wishes of the few who have said they do not feel ready for this and will welcome them back when they feel the time is right.   

 This week we’ll sing Heart to Heart and Listen as warm-ups (no words needed), polish the first section of Be Still My Soul (again no words needed) and continue Great Brook and Eternal Flame along with Stille der nacht and Wake Up (words attached).  The words of Brook, Flame and Stille were all attached to recent newsletters.  PLEASE PRINT OUT YOUR OWN WORDS IF YOU POSSIBLY CAN. 

 THE GREAT MOTCOMBE SANTA RUN – Sunday 5th December  10.00 a.m. 

We have been asked by the organisers if we would be able to sing carols for this once again.  The last event in 2019 saw over 500 people running a 3K race around the village followed by mulled wine, mince pies and general Christmas merriment in the village hall!  It is anticipated that the runners would get back to the village hall from about 10.30.  The festivities then last for about an hour, so all done by 11.30.  Can you give it some thought please so that I can let the organisers know whether we can do this?  We will make our decision on Wednesday. 

 We have also been asked if we could sing at their wonderful village fete on Saturday 4th June!  (Nothing like getting in quickly.)  We’ve taken part in this several times now so it would be great to support them again. 

 CHOIR COMING EVENT: 

Wednesday 1 December – The U3A have invited us to sing for their Christmas lunch at the Olive Bowl in Gillingham.  More details later. 

 OTHER EVENT: 

Sunday 17 October - The Phoenix Café Orchestra, which features many, many well known faces, will be playing for afternoon tea at St James’ church next Sunday at 4.00 p.m.  It would be great to see you there! 

 David   

11 October 2021