Thanks to Barry for report from last week’s concert at St Olaves. Ed
The 13th century church was packed for a “Spring is in the Air” concert featuring Newchurch Male Voice Choir, soloists Eleanor Taylor (soprano), Tom Cameron (baritone), Lyndon Jones (organ) and Elizabeth Peace (monologues). The choir was conducted by musical director Roy Bevan and accompanied Jenny Riddell on the piano.
Music Festival prize-winners
Eleanor and Tom sang a varied selection of songs and duets, one, One hand, one heart, won them first prize in this year’s IW Music festival with 90 marks. Tom has won a place at the Royal Northern College of Music, starting in September. Prior to this, they are to record a CD at St Olave’s in aid of the church repair fund.
The magnificent sound of the male voice choir with piano and organ rounded off the concert with the Emrys Jones setting of Morte Criste.
Renovated organ back in action
This was the first concert appearance of the newly renovated organ. Built in 1898 and now incorporating some pipes from the Upper Chine School organ, it is now classified as an organ of special historic interest.
The concert raised £1,030 towards remedial work to the crumbling east wall of the church which houses the famous William Morris windows.
Image: David Oxtaby under CC BY 2.0
