Forewor d

by Brian Kenwell Chairman, Police Male Voice Choir (incorporating the Royal Constabulary GC Male Voice Choir)

T IS MY PLEASURE as Chairman of the Police In this special anniversary year we are also delighted to welcome Male Voice Choir to welcome you to this our annual the return to our concert of the Police Service of Iconcert which, in this special year, marks the ninetieth Ladies Choir, and pipers from the Pipes and Drums of the Police anniversary of the formation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Service of Northern Ireland. We are grateful they have been able to include our concert in their very busy schedules of events. We are indebted to the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC Foundation for their input to our concert. The Foundation and the In May 2011 the Male Voice Choir accepted an invitation to many groups affiliated to it have planned a series of events to perform in concert in Nottingham. During the trip we visited the mark the anniversary, details of which can be found on page 5, National Memorial Arboretum, a stunning facility where the and I know they will welcome anyone wishing to join with them Royal Ulster Constabulary GC garden exists alongside many in marking the anniversary. You will also find information about hundreds of memorial gardens. It is situated near Lichfield in the Foundation on page 5. Staffordshire and I would highly commend a visit to anyone who is in the vicinity. At our concert last year we were privileged to have with us the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Concert Band. We are We are indebted to the Principal and Board of Governors of the delighted they have agreed to join us again under their Director Royal Academical Institution for allowing us the use of of Music, Martin Wall, and I know you will enjoy their input. their excellent facilities for tonight’s concert. I hope you will enjoy the varied programme which we have for you tonight.

3 The royal ulster constabulary george cross foundatio N

HE FOUNDATION was created by virtue of Section 70 of the Police (NI) Act, 2000, for the purpose of ‘marking the sacrifices and honouring the achievements Tof the Royal Ulster Constabulary’. It is privileged to have as its Patron, HRH The Prince of Wales.

A principal function of the Foundation is the management of the RUC GC Garden at Police HQs, Knock Rd, Belfast, which can be visited any day by arrangement. Volunteer Guides are available to conduct the tours.

To mark the formation of the RUC on 1st June 1922, a Service of Thanksgiving is held each year in a different location in the Province. This year, being HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Service will be held on 27th May in St. Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast. The creation of an Oral History which records the stories and experiences of former RUC GC officers and their families is now well advanced. A bursary scheme to develop innovations in and is extremely appreciative of the efforts of all those involved policing has also been operated for some years past. in producing and delivering the Concert to-night.

The Foundation undertakes a variety of memorial and ceremonial The Foundation can be contacted as follows: initiatives, together with various Associations and Groups within 65 Knock Road, Belfast BT5 6LE the policing family, in pursuance of its overall purpose. It is very T: 02890-700116 privileged to be co-ordinating a number of events to mark the 90th E: [email protected] anniversary of the formation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary W: www.rucgcfoundation.org

Forthcoming event s to mark the 90th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC

Friday 25th May Saturday 16th June Gala Dinner – Newforge Country Club at 7.00pm. Service at National Memorial Arboretum. Tickets £20.00, via RUC GC Foundation, from 15th March. Contact Co. Armagh RUC GC Association, asap, on e-mail: [email protected] Sunday 27th May RUC GC Foundation, 65 Knock Rd, Belfast. BT5 6LE Service in St. Anne’s Cathedral at 3.30pm. T: 02890-700116. E: [email protected] Tickets, via RUC GC Foundation, from 1st April.

Other events will be publicised as and when they are finalised.

5 PoLICE MALE VOICE CHOI R (Incorporating the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC Male Voice Choir)

HE MALE VOICE CHOIR was formed in 1973 and In May 2011 we travelled to Nottingham by invitation to throughout the years since has travelled to all parts of perform both in concert and at a church service. While there we Northern Ireland to perform both in concert and at took the opportunity to visit the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC Treligious services. We do so both from a love of music and to Memorial Garden at the National Arboretum which is located enable organisations to raise funds for their chosen purpose. We close to Nottingham. For many of the members this was both a have also taken part in music festivals both throughout the rewarding and emotional experience. Details of how to join the United Kingdom and abroad having travelled to Germany, choir can be found on page 15. Sweden, Canada and the Czech Republic. Requests for the choir to perform are welcome and should be The past twelve months have seen the demand for the choir’s addressed to: The Secretary, Police Male Voice Choir, c/o services continue at a high level throughout our season from Newforge Country Club, Newforge Lane, Belfast. BT9 5NW September to May. The Police Federation for Northern Ireland 77 Garnerville Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim Telephone (028) 9076 4200

Would like to wish the Police Male Voice Choir every success for their concert

6 MArk M cGrat H

ARK WAS BORN in Belfast in 1982, and showed a keen interest in music from an early age, taking piano lessons with Donal McCrisken from the age of six. He was educated at Belfast Royal Academy and then at Methodist College Belfast where he held the Kerr MHenderson Organ Scholarship, playing for services, concerts and broadcasts.

In 2001 he was appointed Assistant Organist at St George's Belfast where he studied the organ with Charles Harrison, and in that year went with the choristers to represent the UK at the Basel International Choral Festival.

Mark moved to in 2002 to take up an organ scholarship at St Martin-in-the-Fields, accompanying the choirs as well as giving recitals and playing for broadcasts. He is currently the Director of Music in St Finnian’s Church Cregagh, in Belfast.

In 2007 Mark toured India with a company called Toccata, performing with musicians and singers from Northern Ireland and London in Bangalore and , and went with the company in 2008 as State guests of Zambia, performing in the country’s Parliament Buildings for large audiences to raise money for local charities.

For several years Mark has worked with Roma Tomelty and Centre Stage Theatre Company as Musical Director, working with professional actors and teaching music and drama to young people, and touring Ireland with Christmas shows aimed at children. He composed and performed an original score when the company presented Louis Macneice’s “The Dark Tower” as part of the celebrations of the poet’s centenary year. He also composed and arranged music for a performance of the 18th century “Dialogues from the Portugese” and accompanying recording in the Archbishop Robinson Library in Armagh.

Mark is currently the conductor of Spark Opera company, recently set up to commission young Northern Irish composers to write contemporary opera, and last year conducted Spark’s first performance, four short, specially-commissioned chamber operas, with a company made up largely of students and young singers. The company is hoping to go to London in the summer with a show of three new chamber operas aimed at children.

Mark also works as a piano teacher and accompanist, and recorded an album with the band Seven Summits in 2008, which was recently played on radio 1.

In September 2010 he joined the Police Male Voice Choir as conductor where his enthusiasm and professionalism are much appreciated.

Stella graha M

RETIRED primary school teacher and music teacher Stella studied piano with Harry Grindle and Elizabeth Bicker. She has accompanied school choirs, adult choirs and soloists, both vocal and instrumental Aduring her career. In 1999 Stella joined the Police Male Voice Choir as accompanist and has travelled to venues across Northern Ireland and further afield and has made an invaluable contribution to the choir’s success.

7 The pipes and drums of the police service of northern irelan D

HE PIPES AND DRUMS of the Police Service of We thank the Police Male Voice Choir for their kind invitation to Northern Ireland were formed in March 2003 from play at this years concert which marks the 90th Anniversary of T the Pipes and Drums of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. the formation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Today’s band makes appearances under three distinct roles. Please show us your support on the Competition Circuit this Firstly we perform at the police graduation ceremonies of our season, or for anyone in the North Down area, the band will be student officers at Garnerville. Secondly the band competes performing at the Police Service of Northern Ireland Freedom of within the RSPBA competition circuit at Grade 3A level. This the Borough Parade which takes place in Bangor on 24 March. re-emergence came about after an absence from the competition scene for several years, since the demise of the RUC pipe band. Pipe Major Colin McClelland. Thirdly we perform at many other policing and community events, such as tonight’s concert.

10 Northern ireland fire & rescue service concert ban D

HE BAND was originally formed in March 2005 Martin Wall – Musical Director with 8 players - 3 serving Firefighters and 5 relatives of staff - as a wind Concert Band performing a wide Martin has been Musical Director of NIFRS Band since October Trange of musical styles and genres. They have a current 2009. He studied French Horn at Trinity College of Music, London. membership of around 45 comprising current and former NIFRS He went on to play with a variety of orchestras and ensembles in personnel from both operational and support roles as well as many London and around the U.K. including a number of West End members from outside the Service. Band members come from all Musicals. In 1993, Martin was pleased to be offered the post of walks of life, ages, abilities and musical backgrounds and give Principal 2nd Horn with the Ulster Orchestra and since then has been their time voluntarily to attend weekly rehearsals and involved in numerous concerts, recordings and broadcasts for both engagements. The Band plays numerous engagements throughout radio and television. He is very involved in teaching and education the year, notably including the Royal Garden Party at Hillsborough work in Belfast and very proud to be given the opportunity to conduct Castle for the last number of years. They also play at events in Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Concert Band. support of charities such as Marie Curie Cancer Care, Ulster Cancer Foundation and Mary Peters Trust as well as on request at To request the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Concert fundraising and social events. Band to play at an event or to enquire about vacancies within the Band, find contact details at www.nifrs.org in the About NIFRS section.

The band appears with the kind permission of the Chief Fire Officer. 11 Police service of northern ireland ladies CHOI R

HE CHOIR has now been in existence for 35 and any member will be glad to give information regarding years. At the time it was formed our province was conditions of joining. in the midst of turmoil and unrest. This state of Taffairs prompted a small group of policewomen to want to show The season is from September to May and in addition to practice a different face of policing and to reach out to the beleaguered every Monday night the choir fulfils two engagements per month community in song. The choir was formed. It started with nine throughout N. Ireland, singing at concerts and church services in singers, some of whom are still members. There are now over 40 order to raise money for charities and community projects. voices. The choir motto is, as always, ‘Singing for Pleasure’. As you will all have heard in the media recently singing helps to Through the years the choir has travelled extensively throughout ease stress and binds people together in a common purpose. The Britain and Ireland and has been successful in several Music initial group of choir members in what was then the Royal Festivals. On one occasion winning the Glasgow Orpheus Ulster Constabulary Ladies Choir already knew that and thanks Trophy, which had never been won before by a group from to them, 35 years later, the choir is still in existence. outside Scotland. There have been visits to Germany, Copenhagen, Prague and Amsterdam. The success of such a venture depends on the dedication and commitment of the members, but none of this would be possible Like everything else in this fast moving world the choir without the guiding hand of their Musical Director Yvette continues to evolve. When it was first formed it consisted of Anderson and pianist Donald Blair. The choir is deeply indebted serving female officers and retired members, but now to these two remarkable hard working people. membership has been opened up to police civilian staff, wives and close members of the police family e.g sisters, daughters Hearty congratulations to Yvette on being awarded the M.B.E. and mothers. Like all musical groups it welcomes new talent It has been well earned.

12 Yvette anderso n

N 1983 YVETTE came to the choir as our pianist, and in 1989 she assumed the role of conductor and Musical Director. Under her guidance and hard work the choir has enjoyed many successes in Imusic festivals in England and Scotland, as well as conducting us on visits to Prague, Denmark, and Germany. After retiring from her teaching post at Donaghadee High School she continued to make her mark on the local music scene both as a solo artist and also as conductor of the Boys Brigade Centenary Choir. She still has these commitments together with other voluntary work.

As a result of all her involvement in musical matters Yvette was awarded the M.B.E. in the 2012 New Years Honours List. A well deserved acknowledgement of all her hard work.

Yvette continues to motivate the choir to reach out to new challenges and in order to achieve the best she often arranges the music to give a different interpretation and unique sound.

It is hoped that she will stay with us for many years to come.

Donald blai R

INCE SEPTEMBER 2008 Donald Blair has been the pianist with the Police Service of Northern Ireland Ladies Choir. He has made his mark by, not only accompanying the choir in their various performances, but Salso assisting Yvette by training separate sections during practices. He also, on occasions, gives short recitals on the piano during concerts.

In his professional life he is a primary school teacher and has responsibility for the school choir. In addition to all of this Donald is a member of the Boys Brigade Centenary Choir and also it’s Deputy Conductor. Just to complete his musical commitments he is the organist at Carrickfergus Methodist Church.

In the spare time left to him he enjoys playing golf and watching football.

Donald is a great asset to the choir and it is hoped he will have a long and happy association with it.

13 Gene fitzpatric k

ENE FITZPATRICK is one of the best-loved and most respected performers working in Ireland today. With a string of album successes and radio and Gtelevision appearances to his name, he became a household name in the 1980’s and has maintained his position as one of Ireland’s premier comedians.

Gene was compere of the highly successful Ulster Television series Country Style and presented the Radio Ulster series Out to Lunch . He gained national television exposure through his appearances on the BBC2 documentary Open Space, Harty and Scottish Television’s Hogmany Show. He is a Benson & Hedges Entertainer of the Year Award Winner and has starred in numerous pantomimes. He has worked the local cabaret circuit for many years to great acclaim and has toured internationally to Canada and Australia. Castor mart serving industry for over 30 years • Castor and Wheel Specialists • Flexello, Guitel, Alwayse • Anti-Static Castors • Stainless Steel & Brass It is Gene’s unique style and delivery, coupled with a • All Types of Industry Catered For wonderfully effervescent personality, that endears him to his dedicated fans. It would be impossible not to enjoy a night out Tel: 028 9032 3263 in his company. He wants to know who his audience are and he wants to make them laugh. Hence his popularity on the Fax: 028 9024 9784 corporate scene where Gene will tailor his act to suit company needs. He has worked with many of the major companies in www.castormart.com Northern Ireland and further afield.

Gene Fitzpatrick has been described as ‘The Man for All Occasions’ and that’s just what he is. His talent, professionalism and charm shine out; he’s a winner every time.

102 University Ave., Belfast BT7 1GY

14 MEMBERSHI P of the Police Male Voice Choir

EW MEMBERS are always welcomed by the Male The choir has performed throughout the United Kingdom and in Voice Choir. Membership is open to serving or former Sweden, Germany, Canada and in the Czech Republic. Nmembers of the RUC, RUCR, PSNI, PSNIR, full or part Throughout the concert season from September to May the time, or male relatives of any of the former. Membership is also choir averages two concerts each month in Northern Ireland to open to male members of civilian support staff. assist local fund raising groups.

The choir meets weekly for practice on Tuesday afternoon If you would like to join the choir please complete the slip between 4.00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m. below or contact any member of the choir. ¢

MEMBERSHIp FOR M

I am interested in joining the Police Male Voice Choir.

NAME: ______

ADDRESS: ______

______

TELEPHONE NO: ______MOBILE NO: ______When completed, please return to any member of the choir or to: The Secretary, Police Male Voice Choir, c/o Newforge Country Club, Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5NW.

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