November 2011 Issue 38 Hemiola St George’s Singers

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: ‗THE CHRISTMAS LIFE‘—ON SALE SOON

Messiah—the text 2 Watkins Shaw 3 Thinking of Christmas pre- tom-tom, triangle sents? Then we have just the and recorder Handel—film star 4 thing to fill up those stock- providing the ac- CD recording weekend 5 ings—St George‘s Singers‘ new companiment, this How to sing and play 6 CD of Christmas carols. is a truly joyous I used to be a choir boy ... 7 work to set the Entitled ‗The Christmas Life— tone for your Floral arrangements 8 Carols from St George’s Singers‘ Christmas festivi- James MacMillan 9 the CD will be available at our ties. Other new carol concert on 3rd December. works include the St George’s News 10 Wedding Belles 11 A wonderful selection of old gentle O My Dear favourites and lovely new Heart by David A medal for Mary 12 works, some of which have Jepson (also writ- Cultural vandalism 13 been specially written for St ten for St Social evening 14 George‘s, there is something George‘s), plus a Poetry corner 15 here for everyone. new arrangement of I Saw Three The title of the CD comes from Ships by Darius a fabulous new carol that was Battiwalla. Traditional favour- ST GEORGE’S SINGERS certs, from members of the written for us by Sasha Johnson ites are not neglected though— Choir, or through our website: PRESIDENT: Manning, to words by poet and you‘ll find plenty of these www.st-georges-singesr.org.uk. Wendy Cope to celebrate our to sing along with; Ding Dong, Brigit Forsyth We’ll be singing some of the Golden Jubilee in 2005. (Some Sussex Carol, Star Carol, In the VICE PRESIDENTS: of you may have heard it at our Bleak Midwinter amongst others. carols from our new CD at our Sue Roper annual carol concerts.) With CDs are available at our con- 3rd December concert! Come and Mark Rowlinson listen! SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST:Stephen Threlfall Stephen Williams  Briefly highlight your point of interest here. MUSICAL Briefly highlight DIRECTOR: your point of interest here.  Briefly highlight your point of interest here. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

 Briefly highlight yourNeil point of Taylor interest here. ASSISTANT MUSICAL DIRECTOR: After the bliz- milder! This year you rousing choruses and gen- Calum Fraser zards and our annual Carols tle melodies, along with season- freezing tem- and Brass by Candle- al readings. Tickets are £12, ACCOMPANIST: peratures of light concert is on £10 concessions, and £2 stu- Jeffrey Makinson 2010, we‘ve Saturday 3 Decem- dents and children—and the got our fingers ber, at 7.30 pm in St price includes mulled wine and Registered Charity no 508686 crossed that George‘s Church, mince pies. Member of Making Music, the National the weather Stockport. We join Tel: 01663 764012, email tick- Federation of Music Societies for our 2011 with our friends [email protected], www.st-georges-singers.org.uk carol concert from VBS Poynton or online at www.st-georges- will be a little Brass Band to bring singers.org.uk. Page 2 Hemiola

26 November 2011, 7.00 pm AT THE MONASTERY— Gorton Monastery, Manchester MORE TEXT PLEASE, WE‘RE ENGLISH Choirs can usually find a good copies were smuggled to Brit- new version), and the result, the Tickets: £16, £13 concessions, reason to do Handel‘s Messiah. ain—but many were burned, as King James Bible, also known £5 students This time St George‘s has come was Tyndale in 1538, his last as the King James Version up with three. words being ―Lord! Open the (KJV) or Authorised Version, King of England‘s eyes‖. was published in 1611. Tel: 01663 764012 The first is the anniversary of Email: [email protected] the King James Bible, on which And indeed, the King‘s eyes The KJV remains the most Online: www.st-georges-singers.org.uk Handel based the text for his were opened. Furious that the widely published text in the oratorio. During the Middle Pope refused to annul his mar- English language. British sail- Ages, the Catholic Church had riage to Katherine of Aragon, ors took the Bible on voyages a rigid control over the Bible Henry established the Church around the globe; through the and would not allow it to be of England, claiming he was no work of the East India Compa- translated from Latin into the longer answerable to the Pope. ny it was taken to India and to vernacular. But in 1376 the the colonies in Africa, Australia Henry had a Church of Eng- theologian John Wyclif and New Zealand: one reason land, but no English bible. So argued that the Church should why English is the world lan- in 1539 he gave approval for a not have wealth or possessions guage that it is today. translation by Myles Coverdale, and that the Pope had no right who had worked with Tyndale. The second anniversary is that to claim sovereignty over kings. Completed in 1540, it became of Watkins Shaw (see page 3). Maintaining that all authority known as the ‗Great Bible‘, and And the third (albeit a little derived from the scriptures, he Henry decreed that it should be premature) is the 50th anniver- worked on an English transla- available to everyone in every sary of Coventry Cathedral. In tion of the Bible, so that every- church in England. 2012 Coventry Cathedral will one could have direct access to be celebrating the word of God. its Golden Wyclif completed his transla- Jubilee - a tion of the New Testament in landmark c1380, and the Old Testament occasion in c1384. The Church con- recognising The title page to the 1611 first edi- demned the translation as inac- the re- tion of the Authorized Version Bible curate and opinionated, but as building of by Cornelius Boel shows the Apos- the first full version in English, the Cathedral tles Peter and Paul seated centrally it proved very popular. after its de- above the central text, which is struction in flanked by Moses and Aaron. In the In 1401 Henry IV outlawed the the Second four corners sit Matthew, Mark, Luke translation as heresy, and made World War, and John, authors of the four gos- heresy a capital crime, punisha- pels, with their symbolic animals. 50 years of service to Coventry's ble by burning at the stake. Other versions of the bible fol- The rest of the Apostles (with Judas community and the world, both Although Wyclif had died in lowed: the Geneva (Calvinist) facing away) stand around Peter and through its unique international 1384, in 1415 he was declared a bible in 1560, the Bishops Bible Paul. mission of peace and reconcilia- heretic, his bones were ex- in 1568. Then in 1604, King tion, and as a cultural centre for humed and burned along with James I decided that a new the performing arts. In recogni- his books. bible was needed. He abolished tion, Graham Sutherland‘s the death penalty attached to Fast forward over 100 years to magnificent tapestry of ‗Christ To find out more about the English bible translation, and Luther. In 1521, the Pope con- the King‘ features on our con- commissioned a new version anniversary of the demned Luther‘s writings, and cert posters for Messiah. that would use the best availa- King James Version, visit there were public burnings of ble translations and sources, Of course, there is one other his books in London, under www.kingjamesbibletrust. and be free of biased commen- obvious reason for doing Messi- Henry VIII. The ban on trans- taries. A translation committee ah—it‘s just a wonderful piece org lations still stood, however, a of 47 scholars drew on many of music, and one which St ban flouted by William Tyndale sources, especially Tyndale (as George‘s Singers has not per- when he published his English much as 80% of Tyndale‘s formed in its entirety for some version of the New Testament translation was reused in this years. That‘s sufficient reason in Germany in 1526. Some for anyone. Issue 38 Page 3

WATKINS SHAW– THE CRITICAL EDITION

The King James Bible is not the Shaw was the only child of non Foundation at St Michael‘s only anniversary this year. -conformist schoolteachers in College in Tenbury. When the Harold Watkins Shaw was born Bradford, and discovered his college closed in 1958, Shaw in Bradford in 1911, and died in love of music from singing in ensured that all the manuscripts Worcester in 1996. Best known chapel choirs. He studied at the in this important collection for his extensive writings on Royal College of Music, where reached the — and editing of church music, he was encouraged to combine including Handel‘s conducting and closely associated with the his loves of history and music. score of Messiah, used by the Three Choirs Festival, Shaw is He held a teaching post in Lon- composer for the first perfor- remembered by choirs mainly don, was music organizer to mance in Dublin in 1742. In for his editing of Messiah. The Hertfordshire County Council, 1959 Shaw published his edi- Harold Watkins Shaw Times obituarist described and a lecturer at Worcester tion of the vocal score, followed Shaw‘s edition as being in College of Education from 1949 in 1965 by the full score. Fond- ―universal use‖ - though we‘re until his retirement in 1970. ly known simply as ‗the Wat- not sure if the angelic hosts kins Shaw‘, his edition remains In 1948 Shaw became honorary actually need a music score. by far the most popular with librarian of the Ouseley Choral choirs around the world.

MARCUS FARNSWORTH— ANGRY YOUNG MAN

We‘re thrilled that four out- His biggest ‗hit‘ to date though sound over-studied or phony. standing young soloists are has probably been on the opera He must have a great career joining us for Messiah. Two of stage, where he‘s recently been ahead of him.‖ - Rupert Christi- them are new to singing with St performing the role of ‗Eddy‘ in ansen, The Telegraph George‘s: soprano Ruth Jenkins Mark Anthony Turnage‘s opera “Eddy is dark, dangerous yet and alto Laura Kelly will be Greek, for Music Theatre Wales strangely likeable…‖ - George singing with us for the first and on UK tour. Hall, The Stage time. The gentlemen are well Those of us used to seeing Mar- known to us though: tenor ―As the angry East Ender, Mar- cus as totally charming, lovable Richard Dowling has joined us cus Farnsworth is fiercely com- and entirely well-balanced will in many fantastic performances, pelling, virile yet tormented … be in for a shock. His perfor- particularly at the Monastery; his downfall conveyed with a mance as Eddy has won rave and baritone Marcus Farns- memorable howl of horror.‖ - reviews: worth has sung with us many Jay Richardson, The Scotsman times, and of course was our ―...the most convincing Eddy ―From the moment he burst Marcus—before he left St George’s ... Assistant MD before heading I‘ve ever seen: he embodies the into the auditorium, abusing for London. anguished, violently truth- staff on the door, Marcus ...and after seeking youth in a riveting per- Since he left us, Marcus has Farnsworth‘s angry young Ed- formance.‖ - Hilary Finch, The started to make a big noise dy commanded attention.‖ - Times (though with great musicality of Rian Evans, Opera course!) in the concert and ―As dangerous Eddy, the award Not surprising, really. Eddy has opera worlds. In 2009 he won -winning young baritone Mar- just murdered his father and the Wigmore Hall International cus Farnsworth is electrifying. married his mother, after all. Song Competition and the Pa- He … conveys the character‘s Still—we would ask Marcus to tricia Routledge Competition, anger, panic and perky charm bring a little more subtlety and followed in 2011 by the Song with intensity and empathy. He decorum to Messiah. They did- Prize in the Kathleen Ferrier has instinctive musicality that n‘t know about the Oedipus Competition. never makes the vocal line complex in 1742. Page 4 Hemiola

HANDEL—YOU‘RE A STAR!

We all know composers are tie-in to the 200th anniversary ates and critics. He defends his usually mad, sometimes bad, of the first Messiah perfor- copyright, makes and loses and frequently dangerous to mance, the film was deemed so money and starts a cat fight know. We‘ve also probably important that J Arthur Rank between two divas. At the end seen some of the films that have gave the production his favour- of his life, he observes that he ite director and actor, and helped the English with their sought inspiration from this splashed out on Technicolor. religion. With James Bowman, Byronic triple whammy. Ken Sadly he forgot to provide a Emma Kirkby, Simon Preston Russell made a career out of decent script, and audiences and Anthony Rolfe-Johnson Tchaikovsky, Mahler and Liszt; hated it. Even J Arthur amongst the musicians, this at Tony Palmer saw off Berlioz, thought it ‗needed more Rita least had the merit of being Brahms, Dvorak and Wagner; Hayworth‘ (in the trouser role musically worth listening to. perhaps?) It probably didn‘t others mangled the lives of Bee- Next up was Honour, Profit and help that in the midst of a war thoven, Chopin, Liszt (again!), Pleasure, a made-for-TV film against Germany, the hero of Mozart, Schumann, Strauss, with Simon Callow as GFH, the film was a grumpy guy Verdi, Wagner and poor old Hugh Grant as Lord Burlington with a thick German accent. Tchaikovsky (again!). (to whom Handel dedicated two A few undistinguished TV of his operas), and (once again) You probably thought George appearances followed for our James Bowman as Rinaldo. A Frideric was far too sane to be hero, then in 1985 Trevor brief appearance was accorded fed to the hacks of Hollywood. Howard starred in Tony Palm- to Handel in Farinelli, a film Well, you‘d be wrong. Han- er‘s God Rot Tunbridge Wells, about a famous castrato. And del‘s ‗filmography‘ contains no portraying the composer short- most recent of all is a Canadi- fewer than seven film and TV ly before his death, reflecting an/Slovakian entry entitled ‗masterpieces‘. He first ap- on his life, against the back- Handel’s Last Chance, of which peared on the silver screen in ground of his own music. As a nothing whatsoever is known 1942, in The Great Mr Handel, youth he is a prodigy, attrac- (and probably just as well). played by Wilfrid Lawson. tive to women and to patrons. So. what does this tell us about Beset by creditors and ill-health, He travels from Halle to Italy the state of musical screen biog- has-been composer GFH goes then on to London, where he raphy? Only that if you want to to work on his greatest work: feels at home. He composes learn more about a composer, Messiah. Conceived as a war- constantly. He pleases princes listen to the music, and forget time morale booster, and as a and dukes; he displeases prel- the video.

HANDEL: A LITTLE-KNOWN FACT BY MARY HOULT

Not many people know this but 4th above it‘s absolutely true (and I am an F double not making this up). There‘s -sharp in the something you need to know tenor clef? about George Frederick Han- del: he never passed his Grade 5 Was it then Theory. Shock, horror! simply re- venge that There is proof of this in writing, caused him and from the ABRSM, no less: to lace those lengthy “We are sorry to inform you Well, Keith Richards never passed his semiquaver Grade 5 either, and he did OK that we have no record of sequences George Frederick Handel hav- with such ing passed his Grade 5 Theory Another fact about Handel: tricky vocal examination. He is therefore manoeuvres? verifying his eligibility, claim- his birth name was Georg not eligible to be entered for ing that he had never passed his Friedrich Händel, which he Grade 6 Piano.” Well, the answer is this. A few Grade 5 Theory. years ago, when my son changed to George Frideric Poor Handel. How could this George Frederick was entered It seems that his piano teacher Handel when he became a be? Was it the ornaments that for his Grade 6 piano exam, had a senior moment when naturalized Briton unhinged him? Did he have a the ABRSM had some trouble filling in the application form breakdown over a diminished … Issue 38 Page 5

ABOVE: THE SAD AND LOWLY PLANES — OUR CD RECORDING WEEKEND over Napoleon— parts‖ (take 25); ―I can hear one and hence the of the tenors very distinctly‖ name "Waterloo" (takes 34, 56, 97….); ―have we Churches. got Pavarotti there some- where?‖ Rehearsal started at (take 101); 7.30 on Friday until we got evening with some the final of the less demand- accolade ing tracks (Ding, (take 112), Dong! is always a ―That‘s so good warm-up), Christmassy, and by 9.30 three For an entire weekend at the I feel like tracks had been recorded. The end of October, Christmas I‘m wrapped really tough work started on came early to Stockport, when up in tinsel!‖ Saturday morning: first, the St George‘s Singers recorded Meanwhile finishing touches to Past Three a their latest CD, The Christmas Jeff, ably Clock, then into Lauridsen‘s O Life. assisted by Magnum Mysterium, followed by Was that the basses, or the 12.25 Lorraine Lighton‘s daughter The venue was St Thomas‘s A Babe is Born. Emirates flight from Abu Dhabi? Ellie as page-turner (giving up Church in Stockport, a lovely With Neil on the podium direc- her entire weekend for St 19th century building with tion vocal operations, producer George‘s!) was doing battle wonderful acoustics, but which Calum was in the booth with with the organ, which refused through no fault of the original recording engineer Daniel to cooperate with his attempts architects and builders now sits Locke listening intently and to play an E natural. under the flight path of Man- giving immediate feedback on chester Airport. A grade 1 In total, we did 151 takes of 20 our efforts via the loudspeaker. listed build- items, including re-takes for His disembod- ing, St Thom- overhead planes, noises from ied pronounce- as's was the central heating system, and ments were opened in (inevitably) the tenors getting awaited with Jeff searched in vain for a carol that 1825, one of a ahead of Neil, the rest of the didn’t need an E natural some trepida- hundred Choir, and occasionally, even tion: ―It churches themselves. But everyone sounds quite funded by agreed that the weekend was a primitive‖ government most enjoyable and stress-free (take 2); ―It‘s grants as a experience. We hope you like very fuzzy in thanksgiving the finished product! the middle for victory

WE ALMOST CALLED IT ... Now bring in the Chocolate Moo...oose ...

Wrapped in Tinsel - I can’t believe it’s ‘It’s SO Christmassy!’ not Rutter! Page 6 Hemiola

ONE HUNDRED YEARS—AND STILL CAN‘T GET THAT TOP G Woman’s Weekly, the venerable to be of practical interest to all but always without effort. and still very popular publica- my music-loving readers. Its Then strike D flat on the piano, tion, was 100 years old on 4 main idea will be to help you to and sing the notes D flat, E flat, November, and celebrated with sing and play better. F, G flat (just half a tone higher a reproduction of the very first than before). When you can do ―In my first paragraph I want to issue back in 1911. Amongst this comfortably, strike the note give you a few useful hints as to the adverts for ‗Horrockses‘ D, and sing D, E, F sharp, G. learning a new song. First of Flannelettes‘, Dr Starbucks‘ Perhaps you will not be able to all, sit down at the piano your- remedy for removing superflu- do all this at first, but persevere, self and just play over your ous hair, sewing patterns for and you will succeed. voice part, and hum it over combinations, advice on bust several times. Be careful to ―Do you get very nervous when enlargement, and how to earn correct any mistakes you make about to sing a song? If you do, ‘pin money‘, was the following at once, for if you allow yourself try this simple plan. Whilst the rather more cultured article. to sing a passage incorrectly accompanist is playing over the “HOW TO SING AND PLAY— and unchecked, you will find introduction to your song, take BY A LONDON ORGANIST. that it is very difficult to break four or five deep breaths slowly. yourself of the habit later on. The very fact of this action ―Women sing more than men, When you know your part, get seems to steady the nerves. and there are undoubtedly more someone to play the accompa- competent lady pianists than ―Most of the homes to which niment and persevere until you Don’t take it to heart Sybil—what do men. This column is intended this paper will go possess a organists know? feel yourself note perfect. piano. Oh, that poor piano! In ―Just a word about many homes it seems to have that ‗high top note‘ but one tuning in a year, or less. in the song. If you Then when the poor thing is strain to reach it you tuned, it rapidly loses its pitch may do your voice again, and becomes as bad as real harm, so if you ever. This is because the instru- can‘t sing it easily, ment has become accustomed just practice this to be out of tune. That is, the simple exercise. wires have grown used to being slack and will not remain at the ―Suppose the note tighter tension when pulled up you want is top G. by the tuner. My own piano is Sing several times tuned once in three months. the notes C, D, E, F Keep your piano tuned.‖ softly at first, then with more power, Plenty for debate there!

TALENT ON DISPLAY

There are so many talented tures work by six local artists, particularly of local landscapes people in St George‘s, it‘s hard utilising wood, metal, ceramics, in the Peak District. Paul likes to keep track of what they‘re all textiles and collage. Just the to get up before dawn to cap- up to. Just to pick two: place to browse for your Christ- ture the early morning misty mas gifts. Information from: light, and as a result has some Sylvia Glover has an exhibition www.sylviaglover.co.uk, or stunning images of well-known of her pottery from 25 –27 No- www.garryolson.co.uk. local views. Paul currently has vember in the Garry Olson an exhibition of his work at the Susan Hodgson won one of Sylvia’s Gallery in Wilmslow. The Jacqui Smith‘s husband, Paul, Bollington Arts Centre entitled pots in the choir raffle—it not only looks exhibition, called ‗Gifted‘ is is actually an accountant, but Visions of the Peaks and Beyond, good, it’s lovely to handle for that late- now in its third year, and fea- his real passion is photography, finishing on 13 November. night hot chocolate Issue 38 Page 7

I USED TO BE A CHOIR BOY, THEN I DISCOVERED ... COOKING 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 and SEX, DRUGS AND Simon Hopkinson started out 5,000 Test runs, and is also the ROCK‘N‘ROLL as a chorister at the age of 8 only Englishman to score seven Keith Richards attended Dart- when he joined the choir of St Test centuries before his 23rd ford Technical School, where John‘s College, Cambridge. He birthday. His nickname in the he was recruited by the choir- ultimately became a famous dressing room is The Chef (not master into a touring trio of chef, and is now a best selling to be confused with other culi- boy sopranos who, among oth- cookery writer. His book Roast nary choir boys). er events, sang at Westminster Chicken and Other Stories, the Abbey for Queen Elizabeth II. book of recipes he wrote 11 JOURNALISM In 1959 Richards was expelled years ago, was recently voted Jon Snow, the Channel 4 news- for truancy, and transferred to the most useful cookery book of caster (and son of the Bishop of Sidcup Art College, where he all time. Whitby), was a boy chorister at devoted more time to playing Winchester Cathedral, where guitar than his studies. Then he CRICKET the bones of King Canute lay in met Mick Jagger on a train as For five years Alastair Cook a box on a screen above his Jagger was headed to classes at was a chorister at St Paul‘s head. He made a career in the London School of Econom- Cathedral, sang for the Queen journalism, winning many ics. The rest is ancient history. and provided backing vocals for awards, and currently presents Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. He Channel 4 News. TELEVISION STARDOM hung up his ruff when his voice Gareth Gates, winner of Pop

broke at 13, by which time he‘d ACTING Idol, was head chorister at Brad- scored a century in the big choir Actor David Hemmings was a ford Cathedral. He sang solo school derby against Westmin- boy soprano who sang frequent- for the Queen in 1997 on her ster Abbey and decided he‘d ly for Benjamin Britten, and visit to the city. He was award- rather hit a six than a top A. took the part of the very first ed a place at the Royal North-

He went on to become the ‗Miles‘ in Turn of the Screw. ern College of Music, but decid- kelseytracey Photo: youngest Englishman to reach ed to go onto Pop Idol instead.

At the annual meeting of the Association of Former Musical Directors of St George's Singers, one member breaks with tradition and refuses to wear disguise. Page 8 Hemiola

FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS BY DAVE FRANCIS Did you know that Alnwick, in Northum- berland, has an annu- al International Music Festival? Neither did we until we discov- ered in July, almost by chance, that our old friends, the Flora Chamber Choir from Tallinn, were per- forming at the festival. So, on the spur of the moment, we decided to go up and visit them. Everywhere in Alnwick itself being full (the festival really is a big event in the town), we booked a B&B in nearby Amble -by-the-Sea and set off. We had only a vague idea about when Flora sung at 11.00am. and had now they sang for about 30 minutes, were performing – the festival gone. But no matter, they were mainly Estonian folksongs. The website being somewhat un- performing again in the after- next morning they were per- The gardens and the Grand Cas- helpful on the specifics of the noon at St. forming in the cade at Alnwick Castle have been Michael‘s grounds of Alnwick re-opened after a major restoration programme. Consequently, we project arrived to find that we had just Church in the Castle (‗Hogwarts‘ missed town centre. castle). We spent a Flora‘s There was much super time with first surprise and joy them reminiscing perfor- when they ar- about our trip to the mance rived and found Estonian National in the us waiting for Singing Festival in Market them. It was lovely to see our 2009. Of course, we wangled an Hall. good friends, Hele, Maire, invitation to the next festival in They Anne and Karin, plus conduc- 2014. So with any luck we will had tor Erki Meister and the others. see them all again before too Dressed in national costume, long.

TELLING LIVES A HIT AT BUXTON

ALSO AT BUXTON: The Ladybrook Singers, In the last issue of Hemiola, Eric The play received great reviews: “Well directed and choreo- Northey described his new ―5 out of 5” graphed and the acting brilliantly with whom Eileen Halsall play, Telling Lives, a drama “A chilling insight into the na- done. See it if you can.” and Jean Egerton both based on historical records dis- ture of madness” covered in the archives of Prest- sing, won a Recognition “I recommend you see what is a Those of us lucky enough to see wich Asylum. The play was of Excellence award at challenging and often disturbing the play can confirm this was a performed as part of the Buxton powerful, thought-provoking the Buxton Fringe. Well piece of theatre” Festival Fringe event in sum- and beautifully written work “The lyrical beauty of one of the done ladies! mer, before going on to Man- whose human tragedies stayed later songs was particularly effec- chester city centre. long after in the memory. tive” Issue 38 Page 9

DESERT ISLAND DISCS

Desert Island Discs has just pub- just an exquisite song from this lowed) endless lished the top tracks chosen by its great composer supplies of Mol- castaways over the years. We ton Brown Britten War Requiem—the con- thought we’d find out what St summate bringing together of Book: Henning George’s Singers’ selection would texts, and such great music, Mankel‘s Wal- be, starting with our MD, Neil plus the association with Cov- lander novels. Taylor. entry Cathedral And if only one Bach Mass in B minor—all time Judy Garland Live at Carnegie piece survived? favourite choral piece Hall—what a performance! Bach. Frank Sinatra Ebb Tide—a su- Brahms Requiem—the Requiem perb song, great arrangement, to leave all others standing special to Mary and me Elgar Dream of Gerontius—a Honestly Mary, I never mentioned Mahler Adagietto (Symphony No Want to share your own Desert Bali. I said Belgium. close second to the B minor 5) - the association with ‗Death Island Discs? Send them in, and in Venice‘ always makes me Luxury item: unlimited down- we’ll publish the most interesting, weep load capabilities (but absolutely erudite, or weird choices! no email!), or (if that isn‘t al- Richard Strauss Morgen, op 27—

JAMES MACMILLAN WORKSHOP “We have to bring music back, to BY DAVE ROBSON make it one of the basics of our culture again. We cannot afford to On 13 August a number of us Glasgow specifically to match My view is that it would be allow music to move to the who perhaps knew a little about their ability and capacity to great for the choir to perform a James MacMillan's music, but learn quickly. But we also sang concert of music from around periphery. It will devalue and were interested to find out one of his settings of a love the - this to diminish our civilisation if it more, travelled to Shrewsbury poem. include some of James MacMil- becomes simply a concern for the for the day for a singing day to lan's work. A full concert would James MacMillan guided us specialist.” be held at Shrewsbury School. be for me too heavy and serious through his pieces patiently and James Macmillan minded to attract a good audi- It was obviously madness to be with some humour, if a little ence. But something for the leaving Sale at 7.30am on a quietly at times for everything Choir and its committee to mull Saturday morning and some of to be heard. It was above all over. us could have done with an interesting to be introduced to a extra hour's sleep. But the sun style of composition which is shone and the Singing Day was accessible and in many ways led by the composer himself - a quite straightforward to learn. definite plus! PS: Alison The day ended with a short McLay was What a great setting for a work- performance of a number of the (almost) speech- shop - extensive and leafy pieces to a select audience, less when school grounds, old Victorian many of whom were there for a James MacMil- buildings as well as more con- week's musical summer school. lan agreed to temporary architectural styles. sign her own It was a good day musically. Really excellent facilities which personal score However - and this was a real of his work. She I suppose you would expect of surprise - the organisation left quickly recov- such an expensive fee paying something to be desired - not ered though, and school. enough music to go around, the two of them embarked on a We sang primarily liturgical seats which tipped backwards lengthy chat and a rather perfunctory warm- pieces of the composer, many about things of which had been composed up. But there you are! St Scottish—at for his local church choir in George‘s does this a lot better. which point we James MacMillan left them to it! Page 10 Hemiola

ST GEORGE‘S SINGERS‘ NEWS

NEW ARRIVAL! MEMORIAL FOR RAY NEW MEMEBRS Many congratulations to Jacqui On Sunday 4 March 2012 at A big welcome to St George‘s and Paul Smith on the arrival of RNCM, St George‘s Singers Singers for the following: Ro- Thomas Peter at 6.10 am on 24 will be joining with Amici and wan Cancino Bailey, Becky June, weighing in at 8lb 7oz. Stephen Threlfall to put on a Lambert, Rebecca White, Han- Thomas has already unofficial- special memorial concert for nah Bloor and Sarah Lionheart ly joined St George‘s Singers, Ray Lomax. Ray, who was (sopranos); Alice Fox and coming along to a committee Musical Director of St George‘s Katherine Dibbs (alto), and meeting over the summer. He Singers from 1987 to 1996, died Tim Lambert (bass). made some valuable contribu- aged 47 in 2002. The concert is FAREWELL TO KATH tions during the meeting being organized by his widow, (though did fall asleep during Judith Lomax, and the perfor- Kath Wood retires from the the Treasurer‘s report), mean- mance will be conducted by our Choir this Christmas, after ing that Jacqui had to hand Vice-President, Stephen Threl- many years singing with St over minute-taking to Peter fall. More information will be George‘s. We‘ll miss you and Marcus. available nearer the time on St your delicious marmalade George‘s website. Kath, and hope to see you at future concerts.

LAWYER GOES VIRAL!

Our very own singing barrister, lutely Peter Marcus, hit the big time true recently with the publication of (well, his letter to The Times about the lawyers closure of St Paul‘s Cathedral don‘t and the camping protesters. make Within minutes the letter went things viral on Facebook, and was up do spotted by Tim Lambert, Mel they!) Rimmer and Andrea Milling- ―There ton amongst others. were a couple Peter himself was taken aback of mums at the reaction. and ―I just threw it out on e-mail several last Sunday and then forgot children, about it. Since then it has ap- so they parently attracted a huge couldn't amount of support amongst the benefit from the fairly prescrip- Peter‘s letter beautifully encap- protestors and been circulated tively-defined family rates. sulates the situation. Well round Facebook at an alarming They absolutely couldn't afford said—we‘re all proud of you. rate. People I haven't heard to go in. I understand that St (Incidentally, this viral business No Peter—going viral doesn’t from in decades have been in Paul's has to get the money is nothing to do with Gwyneth mean you have to sneeze over touch to ask me about it. A bit from somewhere, but it was Paltrow‘s performance in Conta- the soloists of an over-reaction if you ask well beyond these people's gion. That‘s just a case of bad me, but fun nonetheless. There means, and consequently they acting.) goes the judicial career.‖ couldn't experience one of Lon- don's most beautiful buildings.‖ The story incidentally is abso- Issue 38 Page 11

WEDDING BELLES

Lots of like a red, red rose. The "best ringing the woman" was Lynn Knowling, changes whom many will know as she this sum- was a member of St Georges for mer for many years. three Choir members. The third beautiful bride was Jennie Jenny Thomas who married Smallwood Mark Hesketh on 15th October and John at St James‘ Church, Taxal. Nicol got Members of SGS formed part married on of the choir for the ceremony, August singing Finzi‘s My Spirit Sang all Bank Holi- Day and it was a real joy for day week- them to share in their happy end in day. Jenny and Mark used the Much Marcle, Herefordshire. chanical Mouse Organ - which the classic car offered by Sue Ma- ―It was a very small wedding children loved!! It was a gor- son and her husband to raise of close friends and family only geous sunny day that had a very funds for St George‘s and it - no formal hire permitted! I relaxed and rustic feel to it - looked splendid. walked in to Lark in the Clear from the surprise horse and cart Air, which I had recorded aca- ride to the venue for the delight- pella as a surprise for John. ed bride, to the geese wandering Instead of a reading we played about on the lawn. It couldn't a recording of Christopher le have been more perfect.‖ Fleming's Strings in the Earth and Air (words by James Joyce) A few weeks earlier, on 18 June, - a beautiful duet that I have Phil Smith had married Andrew been singing with my mum Newby in the wonderful sur- since I was very small. Mum re roundings of Bramall Hall‘s -set it for violin accompani- Tudor mansion. During the ment so that my dad could ceremony and signing of the record it with us - a real family register Phil chose to play rec- effort! During the signing we orded music, including As tor- played This Marriage by Eric rents in summer from St George‘s Whitacre, and we walked out ‗Our Spirits Sing‘ CD, and a to the Bagpuss Marvellous Me- beautiful recording of My love is

Finally, a quick word of congrat- ulations to Neil Taylor, who celebrated his third wedding anniversary in Many congratulations to all our October by tak- ing Mary to wedding belles, and all good Brussels. wishes for your respective future Now, there‘s lives together. And you all romantic! looked absolutely stunning!

Page 12 Hemiola

MARY SHINES AT TATTON

Mary Hoult achieved one of her combined ambitions at this year‘s Tatton with the Flower Show in July—winning walls to a Silver Gilt medal for her create the SHINE show garden. skyline, and a tall The garden supported Cancer cypress Research UK by celebrating the referred to charity‘s sponsored city walk, the iconic Shine Manchester. It portrayed Beetham a mini-walk through Manches- Tower. ter at night, with nocturnal Winding contrasts of darkness and light between the represented by dark-leaved per- walls, a ennials and swathes of brilliant Mary in front of the water feature in black pathway led to a shining they threw into the pool— white bedding plants. The her garden water-feature set in a quiet changing the base of the pool buildings of the city were sug- pool, the triangular shapes in- during the show from dark to gested by angular shapes of spired by Cancer Research light. black brickwork and glass block UK‘s arrow logo. walling. Four clipped conifers Mary was thrilled with her Sil- Visitors to ver Gilt medal, though rather the gar- disappointed that she didn‘t get den were the coveted gold. ―The judges invited to came round the day after tor- make a rential rain, and I hadn‘t had donation time to get the planting finished of £5, just as I wanted it.‖ Also, she which was heavily reliant on volun- was ex- tary donations from suppliers, changed many of which didn‘t arrive for shiny until very late—causing a few ‗silver‘ last minute panics. Still— tokens there‘s always next year! which

CHURCH HALL ANNIVERSARY BY DAVE ROBSON On 4th September Cath Bryant hand around the outside of the Warrington came over and had and I attended the 'Give Thanks church hall and shouting out a word and made us feel really for 10 Years of the Church Hall' the numerous activities that go welcome as most people there party on behalf of St George‘s on there. I should note that were from St George‘s congre- Singers. Cath had to shout out "Pancake gation. Above all, it was good and Light Parties" (which I read to know that they recognise our There was some singing as Panties - oops!!]). There was contribution as a Choir to the (including On Top of the World cake, sandwiches and much tea local community and beyond and a little bit of John Denver, to fortify us, though at times we and that they really value the as well as a song inspired by did feel we needed something a full and varied use of the hall - one of the vicar's sermons), and lot stronger. including by us - in the life of there was quite a bit of praying, the church. including standing hand in The assistant curate and Susan Issue 38 Page 13

CULTURAL VANDALISM THREATENS LIBRARY Towards the end of October, St Next, Gwyneth contacted Mak- current George‘s Librarian, Gwyneth ing Music (our ‗trade associa- situation: Pailin, received a letter from tion‘) and was encouraged and Yorkshire Libraries and Infor- relieved to hear that they knew “Thank you so much for mation (YLI) informing her all about it, and that a cam- your over- that a decision had been made paign was being launched to whelming to close Wakefield Music and reverse this cultural vandalism. response to Drama service. It is likely the this cam- decision had been triggered by Choirs and orchestras around paign. We the imminent move of the li- the country were asked to write have re- brary from its existing premises to the YLI to protest at the deci- ceived and the likely corresponding sion, and to ask some crucial copies of over 1,250 costs of the move and new stor- questions: What was going to happen to the music? Would it emails and age facilities. letters sent to the YLI Council to be broken up, or housed outside protest its decision - a staggering A horrified Gwyneth immedi- of the public domain? Why did number. That must surely be the ately informed the Committee, the online survey supposedly tip of the iceberg, and it’s fair to and drafted out a letter of com- carried out some time ago not say that the YLI Council has been plaint. include the International Asso- bombarded by people from all STOP PRESS! ciation of Music Librarians over the UK expressing the At the 3 November meeting, YLI Wakefield houses one of the strength of feeling that this critical (IAML), public libraries who acknowledged the strength of most important music collec- use the Wakefield service? And national resource must not be lost. support expressed for the tions in the country, with over why were users not informed continuation of the collection, half a million items of music until just two weeks before the “Thanks to lobbying from Making available to organisations Council was to meet to make Music and others, the meeting of and are requesting expressions throughout the UK. It is used the final decision—leaving little the Council on 3 November to of interest by 30 November by thousands by choirs, making time for protests and consulta- discuss the future of the service is from groups with proposals to it possible for hundreds of thou- tion. now open to the public, and our maintain the service. Chief Executive Robin Osterley sands of people around the country to enjoy music. Gwyn- Many members of St George‘s will be attending. We are hopeful Follow the campaign’s eth reckons that St George‘s rallied to the call, and sent that Making Music will be involved in helping to find a solution to this would have been unable to put emails of protest, as did other progress on the Making Music situation.” website (www.makingmusic. on many of our recent concerts choirs around the country, and without the facilities at Wake- the Guardian newspaper added org.uk/saveyorkshiremusic Let‘s hope we can change field—often the only place in its voice to the campaign. The library) and follow updates as YLI‘s minds, or this great re- the country with the scores we following email from Robin source could be lost for ever. they happen on Twitter, need. Osterley, Chief Executive of #saveyorkshiremusiclibrary. Making Music, sets out the

GILL‘S LOSS IS OUR GAIN

Alto Gill Holt has recruited the lose weight. She hopes that the did into her family tree, one support of the entire Choir in incentive provided by the close side of which is Welsh. She her efforts to lose weight, by scrutiny of her sponsors will wanted to keep a much closer asking people to sponsor her. make it a little easier to stick to connection with her Welsh The funds will go to St the diet. roots, particularly her grandfa- George‘s Singers as part of our ther Llewellyn Jones, and chose Gill wants to lose 20 lbs in 20 current fund-raising efforts the name ‗Rhiannon‘ as an weeks, with a target date of (which this term are being led ancient Welsh name. 27th March 2012. very efficiently by the altos.) So, let‘s support Rhiannon, and Coinciding with the diet is An injury to her leg meant that raise some money for future Gill‘s decision to change her Gill has been unable to exercise concerts at the same time. Gill’s official weigh-in at name to Rhiannon. This came choir practice as much as she would have about after some research she liked, hence the need for her to Page 14 Hemiola

The social evening at the LATE ARRIVALS AT THE SINGERS‘ BALL end of last season was, as usual, full of elegance, Mr & Mrs Eggro and their son And here‘s Rachman in off the Mr & Mrs Verdi and his aged Al street father Monty urbane wit, sophisticated Mr & Mrs Lees and their hir- Mr & Mrs Dictus and their son Mr & Mrs Weill, and their very humour and cultured sute daughter Furry Benny bad-mannered son, Kurt performances. Mm ... Mr & Mrs Watches and their Mr & Mrs Day and their Mr & Mrs Din and their profli- goody-goody son, Always daughter Agnus gate son Borro Mr & Mrs On and their daugh- Mr & Mrs Maisonette who Mr & Mrs Retzki and their ter Eunice have just moved to a double flat voluptuous daughter (gwhoar!) Mr & Mrs Ntando and their Mr & Mrs Tuned and their Mr & Mrs Davis and their mar- son Raleigh naughty son Bad Lee athon-loving son, Miles A drum-roll please for Mr & Mr & Mrs Tua and their daugh- Mr & Mrs Zafone and their Mrs Pani and their son Tim ter, Gloria daughter Sue All the way from Australia, Mr & Mrs Bee and their two Mr & Mrs Doe and their son please say ‗Kodaly‘ to Mr & sons, Bee minor and Bee major Ron Mrs Brevis and their unmarried One of our young members, Mr & Mrs String and their un- A fanfare for Mr & Mrs Anglais daughter Miss Anne Hannah Bloor, and her friend fortunately named daughter and their gorgeous daughter Francesca Slater gave a spirited Mr & Mrs Kyri and their Gee Cor performance of For Good from daughter in need of a lift home, the musical Wicked Dr & Mrs No and their very Mr & Mrs … [Ed: No, I’m Val quiet daughter Pia sorry—I can’t stand this any All the way from Rus- longer.] Dot & Ed Minim sia, Mr & Mrs Ork- sky and their shy Mr & Mrs Quaver and their daughter, the modest triplets Miss Orksky Mr & Mrs Foney and their Mr & Mrs Canto and daughter Polly their daughter Bel

Eric Northey gave a sneak preview of his new play, Telling Lives, presenting a very realistic portrayal of a homicidal REMEMBERING BACH maniac Help, help, help! I just cannot What‘s the solution? dobadoba, dobadoba, dobado- learn these words. ba, dobadoba, do. When we sing it at the Bridge- It‘s no good. I water—no scores! No scores! Ba dobadoba, dobadoba, do- just cannot mem- We will have no scores! badoba, dobadoba, dobadoba, orise them, dobadoba, dobadoba, dobado- Bach can be performed in many there‘s no way. ba, dobadoba, do, ways; I don‘t speak When Kraemer brings down his Bach has been jazzed up many German, and baton, he‘ll get a big surprise. times; even if I did— He‘ll get a shock, no rolled ‗r‘s What, what, So why not do it like the Swin- ‗cos no words at all. what? It‘s just too gles would? Who needs the His face will be a sight, and hard, I just can- words when we could sing the when he asks us why we‘ll tell not learn these whole thing SCAT! him ...The choice was words or words, to memo- Another masterpiece from Dave Francis, Ba dobadoba, dobadoba, do- notes! (da capo) rise these words is just too hard. offering a fresh perspective on Bach badoba, dobadoba, dobadoba, Issue 38 Page 15

THE COLOUR OF PICCADILLY BY REYNOLD HIGGINBOTHAM Oh, I love you! railway station, O, the mini-skirts! It flickers! Type of modern, swinging nation, The garish shops selling bras and knickers. Glossy, jazzy Piccadilly, Up an escalator for a coffee With the outfits of the filly Or an ice-cream, cake or toffee. Of our species; every hue, Birds fly inside to take a look. Purple, orange, yellow, blue At W.H.Smith‘s I spot a book Of hair, of dress, of face, Among the mags baring gorgeous torso. Microcosm of human race. I have a feeling of elation Football fans on the trams (Not quite calm) then all the more so. And beery bar fit for star ‗Security personnel patrol this station While from afar (Exeter‘s far) Twenty-four hours a day.‖ Come sleek Cross-Country, Virgin Yes, it‘s an appropriate way Pendolino, purple Northern, almost pales To this great Victorian city (Alongside Arriva Trains Wales) Famous for its nitty-gritty Beside East Midland, smart and glossy Approach to life Looking formal, almost bossy, (Balanced on the edge-of-knife) And slinky, post-modern Trans-Pennine ―A secular society‖ says the pope. Sliding into Platform nine. I hope. Some hope! And the guys Reynold Higginbotham Buying psychedelic ties

YOGA WORKSHOP BY DAVE ROBSON

groups and sometimes splitting should have been provided at On 3 September about 33 peo- into sections doing a mix of the start of the event. Crucially, ple, half of whom were from St singing and yoga, interspersed it is important to keep on link- Georges Singers came together with each other, though not I ing yoga and singing - why the at Brookside Scheme in take Rover demonstrating the have to say combined! That former can assist the latter and part in a new initiative, a pro- ‘dog head down’ pose would have been a step too far! can lead to improved vocal gramme of yoga and singing. technique. This initiative had been many So, what did we learn? - for me months in conception and final- the important points were the So - given the above comments ly was brought to fruition by importance of good posture, - we have decided to put on the Susan Hodgson. how to sit properly and how to same sort of day in the near

place your feet. There was also future, this time with a differ- The day had been organised in a little bit about using yoga to ence. The day will involve choir the usual efficient and effective relax which greatly aids breath- members way by Susan and was held at ing in singing. who own Brookside School in High dogs. The Lane. Richard Strivens and All in all, the day was most day will be Carolyn Ferguson put us enjoyable. Inevitably some as- entitled through our singing and yoga pects of the days could be im- "Doga" - and paces - although I have to say, proved. Only to be expected as we fully ex- the yoga was far more tricky this was the first such workshop pect the day especially when the tutor real- that has been put on. And the to be a bark- ised that for a second I could feedback from members of out- ing success. not tell my left arm from my side choirs was by and large right arm - this much to Dave positive. although it was felt Francis's amusement, We that more context setting spent the time sometimes in full St George’s Singers

For more information, please contact:

Anne Francis (Chair), 01663 764012 [email protected]

Phone:Jacqui Smith 555-555 (Secretary),-5555 01625 533779 Fax:enquiries@st 555-555-georges-5555 -singers.org.uk

SusanE-mail: Hodgson [email protected] (Publicity), 0161 338 3013 [email protected]

ThisSt George‘s would Singers be a good was formed place into 1956 insert by aRev short Eric paragraph Chapman and about Geoffrey your Ver-or- ganization.ney, organist andIt might choirmaster include of Stthe George‘s purpose Church, of the Poynton organization, in Cheshire, its mis- where the Choir still rehearses every Tuesday night. Geoffrey‘s dream was to build a true communitysion, founding choir, date, capable and of aperforming brief history. major You choral could works also to a includehigh standard a brief andlist ofwhich the wouldtypes attractof products, singers andservices, audiences or programs from neighbouring your organization towns. Geof- Find us on the web at: offers,frey died the in 1964,geographic but his legacyarea covered was nurtured (for byexample, his successors western Duncan U.S. Eyre, or Euro- Ray www.st-georges-singers.org.uk. peanLomax markets), and moreStephen andrecently, Williams, a profile Stephen and of is Williams.the continued types of by customers our present orMusical members Director, Neil Taylor. St George‘s Singers is now recognised as one of the leading and most innovative choirsStserved. George‘s in the Singers North Westis now of recognised England, performing as one of the an leading astonishingly and most varied innovative reper-

toire,choirs and in the with North around West 120 of members England, drawn performing from an astonishinglyarea far beyond varied the communi- reper- To receive a regular copy of Hemiola, It would also be useful to include a contact name for readers who want tytoire, of Poynton. and with aroundWe present 100 membersat least four drawn major from concerts an area a year,far beyond in venues the communi-including complete the Mailing List registration on the Thetymore of Bridgewater Poynton. information We Hall present about and Royal at the least organization.Northern four major College concerts of Music, a year, hold in venues annual including Singing website, or contact the Publicity Officer. Days,The Bridgewater and tour regularly Hall, Gorton in the Monastery,UK and abroad. Manchester Now under Cathedral Musical and Director Royal Neil Taylor,Northern St College George‘s of SingersMusic, continueshold annual to Singingexplore andDays, expand and tour the regularlyboundaries in ofthe choralUK and music. abroad. St George‘s Singers continues to explore and expand the bounda- Entryries of tochoral the Choir music. is viaEntry audition, to the Choirand new is via members audition, are and welcome new members to come arealong wel- ST GEORGE’S 2011-2012 SEASON tocome rehearsals to come at along any time. to rehearsals at any time. 26 November 2011, 7.00pm Gorton Monastery Handel Messiah 2012 SINGING DAY—MOZART REQUIEM GIVES FOOD FOR THOUGHT 3 December 2011, 7.30pm St George’s Church, Stockport St George‘s Singers‘ next Sing- Poynton as St George‘s Church A leaflet and booking form for Carols and Brass by Candlelight ing Day takes place on Satur- is undergoing major interior the Singing Day can be down- day 21 January 2012, and this refurbishment. Instead the day loaded from our website (www. 21 January 2012, 9.30 am year we‘re thrilled to be singing will be held at Cheadle Hulme st-georges-singers.org.uk), or Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church one of the greatest of them all— Methodist Church. you can email Gillian Banks at Singing Day—Mozart Requiem Mozart‘s sublime Requiem. [email protected]. But don‘t worry—the venue The price for the day is £20, 4 March 2012, 7.30 pm This is the first time we have may have changed, but the including music hire, morning performed the Requiem at our home-made soup, sandwiches Royal Northern College of Music coffee and afternoon tea. Singing Day, and although and cakes will still be available. Remembering Ray— Lunch can be purchased on the most choral singers will have A memorial concert for Ray Lomax And talking of food— day, price £3. probably sung the work at least So many participants in our once, we know that our Musi- One of the great things about 24 March 2012, 7.30pm Singing Day ask us for the reci- cal Director, Neil Taylor, will our Singing Day is that we St George’s Church, Stockport pes for the food we serve that Caption describing picture or find some new insights to en- close the event with a concert graphic. Spanish Gold we‘ve decided to pull together gage us afresh in this remarka- performance. This year we some of the most popular in a ble work. have four wonderful young 17 June 2012, 7.30 pm special Singing Day recipe soloists joining Neil and our Gorton Monastery—VIVAT! The format and timings of the book. Debra Sallaway and accompanist Jeff Makinson. So day will remain exactly the Cath Bryant are master- do join us for one of the great same as in previous years, but minding the publication, so Ticket Hotline: 01663 764012 choral experiences. look out for copies during the [email protected] this year we have had to move out of our usual venue in day itself.