Stroud Light Music Choir

IT WAS last February when we met for a rehearsal of 'Iolanthe' knowing that our MD was leaving to spend more time with her other choir.

Sadly, that performance never came to fruition.

But...help was at hand!

One of the soloists, who had successfully taken previous rehearsals, stepped forward.

His name ... Mr Joe Patel, a minister with the Mormon Church in Nelson Street, who was not only willing to take her rehearsals, but could also provide his church for rehearsals and performances.

Several of the choir had left, to retire or to concentrate on other choirs, but a good number turned up on March 16, and were delighted by their surroundings, a church of modest proportions with excellent parking, kitchen and toilet facilities.

The room was warm, and that feeling of warmth prevailed as Joe put us through our paces, warming up and working on two show songs, accompanied by an excellent pianist.

Since then, some old friends have left, but a lot of newcomers have arrived, including much younger people.

I have been singing since primary school in the thirties (which shows that age does not exclude you from this choir) and this is the youngest choir I have encountered since I was a student.

We are having great fun singing songs from Walt Disney and other shows, and we have also begun to rehearse carols in order to participate in a carol service at St Lawrence Church.

Like most choirs, we are short on male voices.

There are several male voice choirs in the area.

Competition is fierce.

So, come on, gentlemen, you would be joining an extremely fine section of men.

You do not have to be able to read music and there will be no auditions.

At present, it is all free (no subscriptions), no cost for scores, you even get free refreshment.

If you want more information, I believe we are online as Stroud Light Music Choir.

If not, I am usually at home on: Mrs M K Birkin 01453 757779.