February 2013 Issue 42 Hemiola St George’s Singers

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: MEMORIES OF ALDEBURGH

Britten at 100—preview 2-3 2013 is a special year for fans of atmosphere created by Diary of a recording 4-5 , as the nation performing St Nicolas in Christmas concert review 6 celebrates the 100th birthday of the church where it was Singing Day success 7 one of our greatest composers. first performed and record- SGS News 8 For St George’s Singers, our ed, where Britten’s funeral Jeff takes to the streets 9 ‘Britten at 100’ concert on 23 had included the two February at RNCM also brings hymns from the work, and Name that tune 10 The staging party 11 back happy memories of the beside the Piper memorial Pilgrimage to Leipzig 12-13 Choir’s tour to Suffolk in 2005, window, intensified the when we performed St Nicolas emotion of the occasion. Fit to sing 14 in Britten’s own church in In the first half Marcus Eric Whitacre on choirs 15 Aldeburgh. Geoff Taylor or- [Farnsworth] sang Let the St George’s in China 16-17 ganised the tour, and wrote the Dreadful Engines and Even- following for Hemiola: ing Hymn by Purcell, and The bear goes home 18 The trees they grow so high, Mindful music 19 ‘On Saturday morning we trav- arranged by Britten. Jeff elled through the Suffolk by- played a Bach prelude and ways to Snape Maltings where ST GEORGE’S SINGERS Britten’s Prelude and Fugue Esther Platten, who works for PRESIDENT: on a Theme of Vittoria brilliant- John Piper’s memorial window to Benjamin the Britten-Pears Foundation, ly. We sang Zadok the Priest , Britten in the Church of St Peter and St Paul Brigit Forsyth gave us an informative tour of in Aldeburgh O Quam Gloriosum, Beatus Vir VICE PRESIDENTS: the fabulous concert hall, home and, of course, Locus Iste. fabulous pianists, the bold Sue Roper of the Aldeburgh festival, creat-

Mark Rowlinson ed by Britten and Pears. We young percussionists, and us, Stephen Threlfall ‘After the interval Stephen in- SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST: all responding to Stephen’s Stephen Williams sang Locus Iste (of course), con- troduced St Nicolas, reminding  Briefly highlight your point of interest here. ducted by Jeff Makinson, to inspirational conducting, not  Briefly highlight your point of interest here. the audience of all the happy MUSICAL DIRECTOR: claim it for St George’s. to mention the Pickled Boys,  Briefly highlight your point of interest here. associations between the church Neil Taylor produced an experience for  Briefly highlight your point of interest here. and the work, and encouraging ‘We had all too brief a time to which the word “memorable” ASSISTANT MUSICAL DIRECTOR: them to sing the hymns lustily explore the pretty town of Alde- is far too tame. The church Calum Fraser as a tribute to the composer. burgh before a rehearsal in the was packed and the audience The orchestra (you would have ACCOMPANIST: church. Our Musical Director responded enthusiastically, thought they had been playing Jeffrey Makinson [Stephen Williams] stood up in applauding us all the way out. together for years), Jeff’s magi- front of orchestral players he had never met, not to mention cal accompaniment, Mike Ben- ‘Rosamund Strode, Britten’s Registered Charity no 508686 the Pickled Boys. With the help nett’s bravura Saint, the brave music secretary and personal Member of Making Music, the National of St Nicolas another miracle young St Nicolas, the angelic assistant for many years, told Federation of Music Societies was wrought as singers and semi-chorus sound floating Stephen and Mike that it had www.st-georges-singers.org.uk orchestra came together in a down from the gallery (“where been terrific and that, “Ben remarkable way. The special Ben always put them”), the would surely have loved it”.’ Page 2 Hemiola

Saturday 23 February, 7.30pm BRITTEN—THE FOURTH ‘B’ Royal Northern College of Music

Britten at 100 Edward Benjamin Britten was composers. As well as experi- featuring born on 22 November 1913, the mental pieces, however, he was , day dedicated to St Cecilia, the also writing works more charac- Hymn to the Virgin, patron saint of musicians and teristic of his mature style, church music. He was the amongst them the Hymn to the , , youngest of four children born Virgin, written at the age of 16 Antiphon, to Edith and Robert Britten, a in a few hours while recovering and orchestral works successful dentist who really from another bout of illness. wanted to be a farmer. Ben’s Metamorphoses after Ovid In 1930, aged 17, following a health was not robust; he nearly Phantasy Quartet for and selection interview with Ralph died of pneumonia at three Vaughan Williams and John Strings months, and had a congenitally Ireland, he won a scholarship £14, £12 conc, £5 students weak heart that ultimately led to the Royal College of Music. to his premature death aged 63. Tel: 01625 440404, The RCM proved a disappoint- Email: tickets@st-georges- Edith was the music lover in ment, and in 1959 he reflected singers.org.uk, the family, and recognised and that that he had found, ‘the Benjamin Britten (1913—1976) At Crag House Online: encouraged (some say ruthless- attitude of most of the students Photo: Roland Houpt ly) Ben’s obvious … amateurish www.st-georges-singers.org.uk talent, telling and folksy.’ scientious objectors. One of the friends that her son He was al- first works he composed on his would be ‘the ready having return was Hymn to St Cecilia, to fourth B’ after success how- words by Auden. But most of Bach, Beethoven ever: his work his energy at this time was con- and Brahms. He A Boy is Born, centrated on . The was composing by was broadcast opera was immediately hailed the age of 5, and by on the BBC as the first indisputably great 11 he was produc- on 23 Febru- English opera since Purcell’s ing enormous quan- ary 1934—the Dido and Aeneas, and Britten’s tities of music. A very day El- reputation was made. He went school essay on gar died—and on to establish the Aldeburgh animals, turned the Phantasy Festival, was heaped with hon- into an attack on Quartet was ours and awards from around hunting and all performed at All photos All courtesy of www.britten100.org the world, and was made a life forms of aggres- Edith with her four children, young the ISCM peer in 1976, just six months sion, was an early Benjamin in the centre Festival in before his death. indicator of his Florence. Britten with Peter Pears at Snape Maltings commitment to In the 30 years after Grimes Escaping from the RCM, Brit- pacifism and sym- Britten wrote more great oper- ten wrote music for a small pathy with the as, instrumental and vocal documentary film company, ‘outsider’, which works. Indeed, he was unique then met and began to collabo- was to reappear in amongst his generation in writ- rate with WH Auden, who took his music through- ing music across a wide spec- on the role of intellectual and out his life. trum of genres, and for per- political mentor to the young formers of all ages and abilities, In 1928 he went composer. Then in 1937 Ben including children. However, it as a boarder to met the tenor, Peter Pears, who is his choral music that we par- Gresham’s became his lifelong artistic and ticularly celebrate in our School, and whilst domestic partner, and inspirer ‘Britten at 100’ concert. still at school, of much of his vocal music. Britten studied They sailed to America in the He had been educated at Gresh- with Frank Bridge spring of 1939, following in am in the Anglican choral tradi- who introduced Auden’s steps, but homesick- tion, and in his early years was the teenager to ness and the war persuaded a member of the English Madri- contemporary them to return in 1942 as con- gal Choir (though his bass voice Issue 42 Page 3 was somewhat uncertain!). wrote music for real people, The Choir will be joined at the Britten BALLAD OF HEROES From these beginnings, he always keeping performers as RNCM by our wonderful ac- wrought a distinctive sound well as listeners in mind. He companist Jeffrey Makinson on On Friday 5th July at the world, with an impeccable considered the power and range the organ, and we welcome the Bridgewater Hall, St George’s sense of timing and word- of their voices, the occasion and Eblana String Trio and oboist Singers join Chetham’s setting. He said, ‘One of my environments in which the David Curington to join the Symphony Orchestra and chief aims is to restore to the work would be performed. He celebrations. During their time Chorus in a performance of musical setting of the English delighted in providing music for at the RNCM they won all the Britten’s Ballad of Heroes, language a brilliance, freedom specific occasions or venues: major chamber music prizes, part of the Britten 100 and vitality that have been curi- Jubilate Deo was written for St notably the 2010 RNCM cham- celebrations. ously rare since the death of George’s Chapel, Windsor; ber music award and audience For more information: Purcell.’ Brit- Antiphon for St prize for their performance of You’re 50 this year. I can say www.st-georges-singers.org.uk ten chose his Michael’s College Britten’s Phantasy Quartet with texts with that when you and I are no in Tenbury; Rejoice David Curington—a perfor- enormous longer here, millions of in the Lamb for Wal- mance they repeat for us. care, and this ordinary people will still be ter Hussey at St With readings from Britten’s perfect match Matthews in North- celebrating your birthdays— own letters and speeches, this of words and ampton. your 125th, 150th and 200th concert offers a true tribute to music is one birthdays. For this celebratory one of our greatest composers. of the delights concert, Neil Taylor of performing Mstislav Rostropovich on the has chosen works STOP PRESS! his works. occasion of Britten’s 50th from every stage of The day before ‘Britten at birthday. The other Britten’s career. The 100’, Friday 22 February, St great joy is the youthful Hymn to George’s Singers will be ap- feeling that he knew how to the Virgin, the Te Deum from pearing on BBC Radio 3’s ‘In compose for singers. Britten 1934, the rarely performed Anti- Tune’ programme, performing The rose Benjamin Britten famously said, ‘I want my mu- phon from 1956 when he was extracts from the concert and sic to be of use to people … I do 43, and Jubilate Deo from the other works. Don’t miss it! not write for posterity.’ He year before the .

BLESSED CECILIA

St Cecilia, the patron saint of heard the story, and also con- Although there is a church ded- musicians, was born in the sec- sented to be baptized. The two icated to St Cecilia in Rome ond century (some say in brothers then devoted them- dating from the 5th century, her Rome, others Sicily), and given selves to burying the martyrs designation as the patroness of in marriage to a young noble- slain daily by the prefect of the music goes back no further than man, Valerian. But Cecilia city. They were arrested, and the 15th century, and it may loved only God, and had made executed. Then Cecilia was have been painters who were a vow of perpetual virginity. arrested, and condemned to be responsible for spreading the She told her husband that an suffocated in the baths. She was belief that she was a musician angel watched over her to ward shut in for a night and a day, by depicting her with harps, off anyone who would touch and the fires were heaped up, organs and other musical in- her. Valerian asked to see the but Cecilia survived. Then they struments. angel, but was told he could tried to behead her three times, St Cecilia is celebrated on 22 only see the angel if he were again without success. She November. The first record of baptized. survived for three days, bleed- British celebrations of the day ing to death, all the while sing- So Valerian went off to be bap- date from 1683, but they had ing praises to God. tized, and when he returned, he been held annually for some saw Cecilia praying in her In 1599, the body of Saint Ce- time before that. Purcell wrote chamber, an angel standing by cilia was discovered in a case of a number of anthems and odes her holding two crowns of roses cypress wood, laid in a marble in her honour, before he died and lilies, which he placed on tomb. Pope Clement had a prematurely at the age of 35 on their heads, and then vanished. magnificent shrine of silver 21 November 1695—the day Tibertius, Valerian’s brother, made for the holy relics. before St Cecilia’s Day.

Page 4 Hemiola

Connie Jones, one of St DIARY OF A RECORDING BY CHRIS HAZELL George’s Singers’ longest- serving altos, is not the only musician in her family. Her In June 2012 I travelled to Los Earlier this year I did a project ment you really are unlikely to brother Chris is a well known Angeles to produce a recording which required 36 tracks of notice. for the Los Angeles Master music and it needed nearly composer and record producer. Overnight I had been thinking Chorale, a professional choir of 200Gb of hard drive. We’re delighted he’s taken about the choir layout in the 30- from 50 to 150 singers and one time to give us this insight into The sound engineer was Fred minute long Miserere and some of the best in the USA. Vogel who is something of a changes were necessary. How- what it takes to produce a legend on the West Coast. We ever, everyone was happy with professional choral CD Two years ago I produced their first international release of emailed each other such basic this and I moved into the con- recording. works by the young New York but important things as how trol room backstage. After the composer Nico Muhly. The many rows of chairs and what rehearsal I was asked to stay recording was to take place in sort of layout would be best for behind with the conductor and the amazing Frank Gehry- the music. We agreed to run his assistant as the choir had designed Walt Disney Concert two different recording systems. laid on a question and answer Hall, and the repertoire was the Fred uses ProTools while I am session with the choir’s patrons choral music of Henryk Górec- used to the Pyramix system and sponsors. ki – the Miserere, the Marian which I use for editing record- ings. Sunday 10th June was concert Songs and Lobgesang.

day. No rehearsal but an oppor- It is unusual for me to attend I arrived in LA for the choir’s tunity for me to go through the rehearsals for recordings but, as second rehearsal. Their conduc- music and prepare a guide previously, they asked if I tor is Grant Gershon and I had schedule for the recording. I could be there as it would be a really warm welcome from allow 15 minutes at the start of helpful in discussing choir lay- Grant and the choir. The Walt the recording to get the balance out, recording running order Disney Concert Hall is stunning right and adjust mics as neces- and any technical issues. both inside and out and has a sary. The union rep confirmed great sound. that the choir has a break of 15 Although CDs are still issued minutes in every hour. I fac- 16-bit 44.1 kHz sampling rate, The next day was the dress tored this in and ended up with these days high resolution re- rehearsal for the concert and for about 8 minutes of recording cordings are required for the recording. Mics were put time for every minute of actual YouTube so we recorded at 24- out for archive recording. Fred recorded music. bit 96kHz. This means a lot of and I agreed that they looked computer number-crunching too close for the disc. I think Tuesday 12th June was a big The Walt Disney Concert Hall and a lot of hard drive space. the music should have an open day with the larger choir to do sound with quite a the Miserere in two 3-hour ses- lot of ambience sions. I announced ‘Take one’, round it. Disney the red light went on and we Hall is a good were away. In the second sec- sound but doesn’t tion it is nearly all in 3rds be- have a long reverb tween Bass 1 and Bass 2. It time so we decided looks easy on paper but try to move the mics singing scales in thirds with back to give the every one smack in tune, quiet- sound some space, ly and molto legato! A good but we will add a chunk of the recording was bit of electronic completed, it had gone well and ambience to it. everyone went home happy. Purists, don’t hold up your hands in Wednesday 13th June. I lis- horror! This hap- tened to some of what we had pens quite a lot recorded yesterday in the cold and with current light of day and in a bland hotel very clever equip- room. It sounded good which Issue 42 Page 5

DIARY OF A RECORDING CONT/... was very encouraging. I didn’t work on it for long as I had to keep my ears fresh for the after- noon session. We started with the Lobgesang and then onto the final collection, the Marian Songs. At the end of the session we are more or less on sched- ule.

Thursday 14th June. The final day of recording. Again we only had one session in the afternoon which may seem an extravagant use of time, but, given the intensity of the re- cording, especially with the slow and very exposed singing, the choir really have to put every ounce of concentration and energy into it and it is very draining. Try singing three or four major chords for two hours Chris Hazell (on piano), with Aled Jones and Bryn Terfel at a recording session without changing the pitch, mood, volume, voice balance told everyone I would like to and doing it on demand! It is say a few words! I panicked tough. Finally I said ‘Well slightly as I hadn’t expected done, I’m happy’, a cheer went this. I am quite happy to stand up, and I went out into the hall in front of the LSO and say my to congratulate everyone. bit but I am out of my comfort Chris Hazell studied composition zone when it comes to after- Friday 15th June. My final day. at the Royal College of Music, dinner speaking. I have been invited to a dinner Herbert Howells being one of his on stage in the Concert Hall However, I told them of some teachers. He joined Decca and with the Board of the choir – of the people I have been fortu- was with the company for 25 sponsors really, who all contrib- nate enough to work with over years, latterly as Senior ute huge amounts of money the years – Pavarotti, Suther- Producer. Following the closure towards the choir’s projects. It land, Solti, Ashkenazy, Rattle, of the entire recording isn’t possible to do this type of Joshua Bell, David Zinman, 20 department he became recording as an economic prop- years with King’s College Cam- freelance. He continues to work osition as there would never be bridge. I told them what a joy it with international musicians and enough sales, but while there had been to work with them all orchestras as well as arranging are people who believe in it and and that the Los Angeles Mas- music for singers such as Angela have the financial means to do ter Chorale is right there at the Gheorghiu and Renée Fleming. it, I’m pleased to say it can, top. Miserere OP 44 (1981) He has a long-standing and does, happen. Marian Songs Op 54 (1985) friendship with Bryn Terfel for I spent part of the day rough Lobgesang Op 76 (2000) whom he has made many editing. Then it was time to get arrangements for CDs and changed and walk over to the The recording, released on concerts, including a Folk Song Concert Hall for canapés and champagne and introductions Decca in September 2012 and Medley premiered on the Last entitled ‘Górecki Miserere’ by to some of the great and good Night of the Proms in 2008. Grant Gershon and the Los citizens of LA. The President of Angeles Master Chorale, is the Board introduced me and available on Amazon. Page 6 Hemiola

CHRISTMAS CONCERT WITH BELLS ON

This season’s certainly entertaining, and carol concert, on hugely enjoyable.

Saturday 8 De- The band joined in the cember, was fun, with their usual high- overwhelmingly ly polished performance of voted the most Christmas favourites, but successful for saved the best to last with years! As usual, a storming performance of the Choir was a piece called Schnee- joined by our waltzer, an Austrian oom- friends from the pa-pah piece that had VBS Brass Band everyone swaying in the pews despite the fact that we had an in Poynton, but (though it was the second half, almost full house. The children the emphasis of and quantities of mulled wine were not neglected either, and this year’s con- had been consumed!) cert was very Choir members had generously much on chil- St George’s were not to be out- baked and provided special dren—in the done however. The concert biscuits for them. opened, with all the lights audience, on the The serious side of the festive dimmed, with Once in Royal stage, singing, season was not forgotten, with David’s City, with Jacqui Smith playing and clap- readings by Chris Shelley, taking the solo soprano in the ping along with Kath Dibbs and Sarah Lion- all the music. first verse, and beautifully set- ting the sce- The highlight of ne for the the concert was undoubtedly evening. the choir from Bradshaw Hall Neil had Primary School, who treated us chosen a all to some fabulous singing— mixture of complete with actions! The traditional confidence, enthusiasm and and new talent displayed by these young carols, and singers was astounding, and thrown in a bodes well for the future of few new choral singing in the Manches- arrange- ter area. ments of well-known Children in the audience also A couple of Santa’s elves somehow managed to had a chance to participate in favourites. New to this sneak in amongst the basses the music-making. Large quan- year’s programme were tities of triangles and bells of all Twelve Days of Christmas Mulled wine mastermind, heart, reminding us of the true Andrea Millington sizes and types had been (complete with pictures flour- message of Christmas. begged, borrowed (or stolen!) ished by children in the audi- from local schools and colleges, ence at the appropriate time), A splendid evening was en- and the children and a new arrangement of Ding joyed by all. Hope we see you were invited by Dong. at next year’s event! Neil Taylor to The other main attraction of And the band played on come up to the our ‘Carols and Brass front and help by Candlelight’ concert themselves to is of course the mulled whatever they wine and mince pies at wanted to play. It the interval. Andrea might not have Millington master- been rhythmically minded the refresh- accurate, but it was ments with military precision, resulting in everyone being The children of Bradshaw Hall Primary served in rec- School joining in the fun with the ord time— Twelve Days of Christmas Issue 42 Page 7

SINGING DAY WORTHY OF LA SCALA

The third weekend in January church hall for a soup and sand- One of the saw the worst weather of the wich lunch—provided as ever things we winter, with blizzards across by members of St George’s love about the country and shops selling Singers. our Singing out of snow shovels. But we Day is that Jo Bluck, this year’s miracle singers are not to be kept from we always worker in the kitchen, had ca- our choral fix, and nearly 200 finish with joled 11 gallons of soup and braved the snow and icy condi- a complete hundreds of sandwiches out of tions to get to this year’s Sing- perfor- choir members for our visitors, ing Day. As a reward, we were mance, who devoured almost every- treated to a heart-warming with profes- thing. One gentleman anxious- day’s singing of Puccini’s sional solo- ly enquired if there would be youthful masterpiece, the Messa ists, to left-overs for later on—which di Gloria. show off there were—just! Then back to our hard This year we were back in St the church (now thankfully work. For George’s Church in Poynton, warmed up) for the afternoon that we were Is there anybody there? following its lengthy refurbish- session of music-making. joined by ment. The church looked love- And what music! As ever, Neil two fabulous young singers: ly, with new, comfortable seat- guided us with precision, pa- tenor Timothy Langston and ing, and fancy electronically tience and inspiration through baritone Terence Ayebare, controlled lighting—which this wonderful work. ‘You’re whose voices blended beautiful- (predictably) proved to be be- on the stage at La Scala—enjoy ly together. yond human understanding, yourselves!’ he exhorted as one Thanks to them, to Neil, Jeff, but did provide an entertaining section after another let them- son et lumière show. Eventually the army of kitchen volunteers, selves go in operatic mode—so Peter and Mike for streamlining Neil emerged from the gloom different from our own dear the tea and coffee service—and and the day started with a choral tones. Jeff was magnifi- of course all our visitors for warm-up, only for the new cent on the piano, whether whom we put on the day. And heating system to start playing playing ‘heroine on the train- so to next year, and Beetho- up. However, the singing kept line’ or simulating an entire everyone warm until lunchtime, ven’s Mass in C major. Never orchestra. Irene finally realised who’d when we moved over to the sung it? Now’s your chance. been eating all the cakes TOP OF THE POTS

Amongst the star soups at this Pinch of salt for a minute, stirring occasion- year’s event were Gwyneth’s 200g golden syrup ally to prevent sticking. Celery, Apple and Carrot, 2 tbs syrup from the ginger jar Beat the eggs and milk gently. Bridget’s Tomato, the Roasted 125g butter Remove butter and sugar mix- Kitchen divas: Anne, Jacqui and Jo doing their Vegetable and the Chairman’s 3 lumps stem ginger in syrup ture from heat and pour into usual impeccable organising stuff Chorizo Special. The winner of 2 heaped tbs sultanas the flour, stirring the Singing Day bake-off was smoothly and firmly 125g dark muscovado sugar Shirley Berry’s scrumptious with a metal spoon. 2 large eggs Ginger and Sultana cake. Mix in the milk and 240 ml milk Shirley baked her cake five eggs—the mixture days before the Singing Day, Method should be sloppy, then delivered it to Jo Bluck for Line a square 20-22 cm tin. with no trace of safe-keeping whilst it matured. Sift flour with ginger, cinna- flour. Thanks for saving us some Jo! mon, bicarb and salt. Bake for 35-40 Ingredients Put the golden and ginger syr- minutes. 250g SR flour ups and the butter into a sauce- Allow to cool, then pan and warm over low heat. 2 level tsps ground ginger tip onto greaseproof Dice ginger finely, add to the paper. Wrap in foil 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon pan with sultanas and sugar. and leave to mature Level tsp bicarb of soda Let the mixture bubble gently for a few days. Page 8 Hemiola

ST GEORGE’S SINGERS’ NEWS

New members generous support, imaginative ideas, and just for being won- A warm welcome to quite a few derful people generally. (What new members this term: Linda do you mean, editorial bias… .) Campbell, Joanna Williams and Kate Atherton (sopranos), Choir broadcasts Diane Walker, Judy Tomlin- Reminder that we’ll be appear- son, Andrea Miller and Barbara ing on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune Forshaw (altos), and David programme on 22 February, Morris (bass). massive £792 for choir funds 4.30 pm, the day before our Hamperful of success over the three months, includ- ‘Britten at 100’ concert, singing ing £130 from Rhiannon Bec- extracts from the concert, plus The altos’ fund-raising efforts in que from sales of concert CDs. other items from our repertoire. the autumn term culminated in Thanks to section rep, Anthea And we’re singing Daily Ser- a splendid hamper, which was Slater, for organising activities, vice on 24 April on Radio 4 raffled just before Christmas, and to all the altos for their (LW), 9.45 am. raising £212. Altos raised a

Anne Francis was recently TALES FROM THE ARCHIVES going through the SGS In 1993 the Choir advertised for I fear that my sleep deficit medley with a traditional archives, and unearthed all a new accompanist, and re- would interfere with my de- Cheshire folk tune. sorts of interesting and ceived 11 applications. manding work and make the ‘Although I cannot offer any Amongst them was one from a extraordinary tales from the already stretching challenges a financial reward for such a fa- certain Zoe Rahman—now Choir ‘s history. Here are just more difficult burden to bear. vour I can guarantee endless regarded as one of the finest a couple of them. ‘Unfortunately, this has meant coffee and croissants and pre- young jazz musicians and com- the development of a profound sume many of the neighbours posers in the UK. (She didn’t and ongoing sense of loss as far will join with me in astonished get the job incidentally!) as missing out on what I believe applause as they look out of Another gem is this letter dated can be a most uplifting and their bedroom windows to the July 2002, from Mr Michael almost spiritual winged concert sight of 116 choir members Lee of Huddersfield, addressed and has encouraged me to look singing to their hearts content to the then chair, Helen Korn- for viable and more convenient- on my back lawn. dorffer. ly timed reproductions. It is in ‘I have no doubt that you are ‘I am writing to you as part of this regard that I write to your inundated with many requests my quest for an unusual item: good self at St Georges Choir of this kind and so I thank you namely the acquisition of a [sic]. for your time and kind consid-

“human dawn chorus” here in ‘I wondered if there might be a eration in relation to this matter the garden of my home in Hud- chance that the accomplished and look forward to hearing dersfield. members of your choir put from you.

‘Despite the fact that English some time aside early one ‘PS There is usually ample summertime involves numerous morning in the next few weeks, parking for your coaches at the days that begin very early in the travel over to my garden in top of the cul-de-sac. Please let morning with the first hint of Huddersfield and sing a selec- me know approximately how light at 4am and magnificent tion of appropriate harmonious many croissants you will re- dawn choruses provided by songs to which I might awake quire.’ every neighbourhood bird with with pleasure and contentment. an ear and beak for music, I Perhaps the choir could begin Memo to Calum and Sue Tay- Are we doing this as a canon, or what? inevitably sleep through such with Morning has broken, move lor: is there an opportunity for on to the old favourite Sunshine entertainment and wake around Cheshire Consort here? Any on my Shoulder and finish the 7am. Should I wake any earlier volunteers? Issue 42 Page 9

A NOT-SO-SILENT NIGHT BY JEFF MAKINSON

If you have been following the of the hardships homeless people can go towards something Jeff personally raised over £350, Booth Centre Sleep-Out cam- have to face each night, organis- good.’ largely due to the generosity of St paign, you will know that the ers were committed to showing Since the event the Cathedral George’s Singers. Well done us— great event took place on Fri- the positive changes that the office has been buzzing with but especially well done to Jeff, for day 9 November. And it was a work of the Booth Centre can doing something few of us would positive comments about the great success, with over 100 make in the lives of local home- probably wish to do, and braving night. Staff feel that they gained people turning up, including 14 less people. The evening’s enter- the dreadful weather for such a a small insight into the daily members of Cathedral staff, to tainment was provided by mem- great cause. struggle of the homeless of spend one night out in the cold bers of the charity’s opera group Manchester, and look forward and damp, in order to raise (weekly singing workshops are to participating in the event funds for the charity. Among run in conjunction with Street- next year! The Cathedral’s those taking part was Helen wise Opera and Opera North) grand total, including Just Giv- Varley, who works for CBBC who proved just what people can ing donations and off-line spon- in Salford Quays. ‘It was an achieve when given the oppor- sorship, came to £2,698.The amazing experience but also a tunity. Ray Goodwin spoke of generous response from the harsh insight into the life some his personal experiences of Cathedral community and fur- people have to lead. I felt the sleeping rough in the city centre ther afield has been greatly ap- winter chill in my bones, my and how, with the help of the preciated. sleeping bag was soggy and the Booth Centre, he had got his life hard ground and noise made back on track. Over £22,000 has been raised in sleep pretty impossible–think I total; funds that will enable the Hot soup was provided courtesy got 30 minutes kip all night! I Booth Centre to help more of Henry J Bean’s Bar & Grill, don't think anyone who was homeless people get away from made with the fresh vegetables part of the Sleep-Out will ever life on the street, re-settle in the grown in The Printworks’ roof take a warm bed for granted community, and return to garden. Fred Booth, Centre Di- again and I'm proud and work. At such a challenging rector for The Printworks said, pleased that we have all come time of year, as the nights grow ‘I’m happy that The Printworks together for such a great colder and wetter, the money can get involved in such a great cause.’ raised will make a huge differ- cause. There is no denying that ence to the charity’s work. Although the Sleep-Out gave we need to help the homeless Thank you! participants a glimpse of some and it’s great that our vegetables www.boothcentre.org.uk

WE COULDN’T POSSSIBLY COMMENT ... Our leader The saving of Yorkshire Li- ing the relocation and braries Service has been a great transition of manage- relief to us all—particularly ment, the “front-of- Gwyneth. However, we do house” conveyance has wonder if, in putting together a undergone multiple plan for future development, modifications in order the library service has been to invest in an online taken over by civil servants or service in response to (even worse) management your recent over- consultants, as the following whelming customer extract from a recent letter feedback.’ suggests: We think they’re set- ‘Whilst the basis of functional- ting up a new web- ity concerning the library’s site—but if anyone has operations has sustained no any better ideas ... significant permutations dur- Page 10 Hemiola

NAME THAT TUNE—MUSICAL CRYPTOGRAMS

A musical cryptogram is a se- natural was named 'H'. The best The many-to-one mapping of quence of musical notes which known musical cryptogram is this method makes it more diffi- can be taken to refer to an ex- the B-A-C-H motif, used by cult to extract possible motifs tra-musical text by some Bach himself, by his contempo- from the musical score than the 'logical' relationship, usually raries and by many later com- one-to-one correspondence of between note names posers. the German system. and letters. Other note names were derived Cryptograms were less com- The most common by sound, for example E-flat, mon in England, but Elgar, and best known ex- 'Es' in German, could represent who was interested in all things amples result from 'S'. Composers less fortunate cryptic, wrote an early Allegretto composers using than Bach usually seem to have for his pupils the Gedge sisters ciphered versions of chosen to ignore non-musical using G-E-D-G-E, whilst part their own or their letters in generating their mo- friends' names as tifs. For example, Schumann of the 'enigma' in the Enigma themes or motifs in has just Es-C-H-A (E-flat, C, B- Variations involves crypto- their compositions. natural, A) to represent himself grams.

From the initial as- in Carnaval, whilst Brahms used B-A-H-Es (B-flat, A, B-natural, Of more immediate interest to signment by Western St George’s Singers is the motif music theorists of E-flat) for his surname in the A- used by Britten in one of the letter names to notes flat minor organ fugue. works in our next concert. in the 9th century it By contrast, the French method became possible to of generating cryptograms was Britten was a good friend of reverse the procedure more complex and closer to Dmitri Shostakovich, who used and assign notes to encipherment, with one musical the German scheme for his the letters of names. letter standing for a number of personal motto D-Es-C-H (D, other letters. The most popular However, this does E-flat, C, B-natural), representing not seem to have version involved writing out the DSCH (as his name would be become a recognized letters H-N, O-U and V-Z lines written in German), and which technique until the under the original diatonic notes A-G, as follows: appears in many of his most Music—it’s so uplifting Baroque period, and (Spotted by Mary Hoult) from the mid-19th century it characteristic works. Britten became quite common. honoured his friend by includ- A B C D E F G ing this motif in Rejoice in the Since the note names only cov- er letters A to G, the problem H I J K L M N Lamb, where the organ repeats arises as to how to cipher the the notes with increasing inten- rest of the alphabet. Historically O P Q R S T U sity, against the chorus line ‘For silly fellow …’ An expression of there have been two main solu- V W X Y Z tions. sympathy and solidarity with

In the German-speaking world his oft denounced friend. B-flat was named 'B' and B-

A CHORAL SINGER’S CONFESSION

Almighty and most merciful notes which we ought to have Restore thou them that need Conductor, sung, sectionals; We have erred and strayed And we have sung those notes Spare thou them that have pen- from thy beat like lost sheep; which we ought not to have cils. We have followed too much the sung, Pardon our mistakes, and have intonations and tempi of our And there is no support in us. faith that hereafter we will fol- own hearts; But thou, O Conductor, have low thy directions. We have offended against thy mercy upon us miserable sing- Amen Dave wanted to make sure he’d marked dynamic markings; ers; his score in good time this week We have left unsung those Succour the vocally challenged; Issue 42 Page 11

THE STAGING PARTY

Every member of St George’s venue doesn’t have in-built But Alan is always thinking of Singers puts a lot of hard work staging. Many Choir members, improvements. His latest is an into practising the music at and certainly recent members, ingenious storage rack, so that won’t know that our staging the staging boards can be stored was de- securely and moved safely and signed and easily (even by the most feeble built by of helpers!) across the bumpiest our very of church floors. own engi- neering However, it still takes time and genius, effort to erect the staging for Alan ponders his next tenor Alan our concerts, so it’s wonderful invention—a hydraulically operated podium Swain. He that a small group of people designed it turn up a few hours before eve- to be easily ry concert to help. Thanks to transport- them, and Alan, we all get to ed and put on the best possible perfor- mance—wherever we are. I think he picked this bit up at Aintree assembled, and it’s flexi- home and in rehearsal. But at ble enough to cope Sue decided this was not her idea of a party the concert, it would all be in with different sizes and vain if we had nowhere to shape of church or stand, the audience couldn’t see hall. He also made or or hear us, and we couldn’t see supplied every single Neil. So we’re incredibly fortu- nut, bolt, handrail, nate in having our own stag- support and rail cover Yet another engineering triumph ing—which means that we can used in its assembly. perform anywhere, even if the

CHINESE NEW YEAR

New Year’s Eve 2012 was a Next day was New Year’s Eve, ond half was the tricky one— gala night for St George’s Sing- and afternoon rehearsal. This the waltz and chorus from Eu- ers, as we joined Manchester time a little more attention to gene Onegin, then the men deliv- Camerata on stage at the Eugene Onegin (thankfully), then ering the ‘Soldiers Chorus’ from Bridgewater Hall to start the off to get changed for the big Faust. But all went without a new year festivities. night. The soloist for the con- hitch, and everyone on stage— cert was American soprano, Things kicked off early—an and in the audience— Rebecca Nelsen. We hadn’t afternoon rehearsal at BBC thoroughly enjoyed the even- really had a chance to hear her Media City the day before, in ing. We finished with Auld at rehearsal, but in the concert the studios where the BBC Phil Lang Syne, and some rather she gave it everything—a beau- normally perform, and where large party tiful voice, and some fabulous we were introduced to the con- poppers were dresses! Bringing operatic ductor for the event, the Ameri- set off by the glamour and theatricality can Robert Ziegler. We’d never Camerata. (flirting on stage with the sec- sung with him before, but real- ond violins isn’t normal proce- How to top ised quickly that he liked to get dure at the Met!) to the even- that? Well, a through rehearsals promptly, ing, she sang barnstormers by large group of and with just a few comments Puccini, Verdi and Gounod, us went on for directed at the choir, we fin- then changed into modern dress a Chinese meal ished on time. A few anxious for Cole Porter’s Kiss me Kate. and brought in looks amongst the choir— the New Year didn’t the Tchaikovsky need a In the first half, the Choir sang in Chinatown. bit more time? All that Russian old favourites: ‘Hebrew Slaves’, A great way to is really tricky! But he seemed ‘Anvil Chorus’, ‘Triumphal bring in 2013. happy, so off we went. Scene’ from Aida. But the sec- Page 12 Hemiola

A PILGRIMAGE TO LEIPZIG BY GILLIAN BANKS In June last year we travelled to now and imagine the no man’s mous for developing calculus at Germany to visit our daughter land on the east side with its around the same time that it who was studying at Leipzig razor wire and automatically was also being developed by University. First we had a few triggered machine guns. Any- Isaac Newton – a topic of some days in Berlin. one interested in learning more controversy to this day. about life in East Germany There are so many things to see would enjoy a couple of Ger- At around the time they were in Berlin that we only had time man films (available with Eng- doing this Leipzig’s most fa- for a few highlights. We visited lish subtitles): The lives of others, mous resident was born. and Goodbye Lenin. JS Bach became Cantor at Thomaskirche in 1723 and On a lighter note we visited the spent the rest of his working life musical instrument museum. there, looking after the music As well as the traditional selec- also for Nikolaikirche and the tion of Strads and ancient harp- university church, Paulinerkir- sichords was Mendelssohn’s che and teaching at the choir organ, a Wurlitzer organ (pure school. bling), an Aeolian harp (looks like a rough wooden box with a The Paulinerkirche, a beautiful couple of strings on the outside medieval church, survived – it’s played by the wind, a WW2 bombing only to be dy- haunting sound), a glass har- namited during the communist monica (the sound of which is DDR to make way for new meant to cause madness) and university buildings, a terrible several musical long case clocks act of cultural vandalism. Inci- (just why…?) Headsets allow dentally the university was re- The famous image of a ‘Trabi’ breaking through the wall you to listen to most of the in- named ‘Karl Marx University’, struments being played. a name that thankfully has not the Reichstag (the German Leipzig is an interesting city survived reunification. parliament building) with a dome designed by Norman with an important history. Ear- A new Paulinerkirche has been Foster and the liest records of it date back to built on the old site, a rather DDR Museum around lovely shared purpose building showing what AD1000, and it with different coloured stone life was like in developed as a the former East Germany. It is incredible to view this with our western eyes and real- ise that this was happening during our own lifetimes.

There is a Tra- bant to sit in, a listening room, and a The old and the new Paulinerkirche and clearly inspired section on ‘FKK’ (look it by the old church. It up!) A small stretch of was inaugurated in 2009 for the the Berlin wall (about a mile thriving place of commerce and 600th centenary of the universi- and a half) has been preserved then a university town. The ty, but still needs a bit of work and sections painted with iconic mathematician Leibniz attend- images. It is chilling to see it ed the university. He was fa- before it is finished. Issue 42 Page 13

A PILGRIMAGE TO LEIPZIG CONT/...

Nikolaikirche, another ancient the people’ spread all over East sual to say Leipzig church, saw the premi- Germany. the least. ere of the St John Passion in As you On 4 November over half a 1724. would million took to the streets of expect Rather more recently, in 1989 a East Berlin and, helpless most of the quiet revolution that led to the against this tide of people, the pews face fall of the Berlin wall started Politburo resigned and the wall the east here. Each Monday after the which had gone up in a day in (altar) end evening service people gathered August 1961 fell on 9 Novem- of the outside the church to protest, ber 1989 in scarcely longer church carrying candles. There had time. with a few been increasing clamping down There is a small Bach museum in the cen- on the East German borders as in Leipzig with an interesting tre and on the side balconies facing side- Thomaskirche ways.

However the organ, orchestra and singers are on the balcony at the back. So most of the au- dience either has their back to the performers or like us, were underneath them! However, the church has a very lively acoustic which meant there was no diffi- culty in hearing and enjoying the music.

There was a Japanese choir and ‘We are the people’ orchestra, Bach Collegium both of which were excellent, and a holes had been springing up in exhibition (fortunately for me wonderful group of soloists the Iron Curtain and people in English as well as German) including Robin had been escaping to the West. about Bach’s life, family and Blaze. Bliss. The country was again haemor- times. They have comfortable rhaging its talent to the West. sofas with earphones and touch The Monday demonstrations screens so that you can listen to started with a few thousand in virtually everything he wrote, September 1989 but the num- old and new recordings and bers joining in increased expo- excellent sound quality. I want nentially until by 23 October it one of those machines! was estimated that over 300,000 We managed to time our visit took part – well over half the to coincide with the Bachfest. population of the city. There was a great buzz about It was by no means certain at the city which takes its music the beginning that those taking very seriously. Rebecca had part would not be arrested or managed to get us all tickets for worse, but the wholly peaceful a performance of St Matthew’s approach of the protestors ask- Passion at Thomaskirche. ing for democracy, free elec- The church was completely full. tions, and freedom of move- The set up for a concert is unu- ment with the slogan ‘We are Concert in the Thomaskirche Page 14 Hemiola

More information can be found FIT TO SING on the website at www.bapam.org.uk The British Association for and for signs of tension non singing: it means no Performing Arts Medicine around your neck and shoul- shouting, no whispering, no Other fact sheets include tips on (BAPAM) provides specialist ders. If you regularly sit to forcing, and limit your keeping fit on tour, and managing health support to all full-time sing, use a chair that is as phone calls. Hydration drink—any tips there for our and part-time professional and comfortable as possible, that means water, not tea, coffee student performing artists. They supports your lower back, or alcohol! Avoid atmos- forthcoming Paris adventure? also publish a series of fact and is at the right height for pheric pollutants such as BAPAM also produces a very sheets, available to anyone, on your body build. cigarette smoke, overheated handy warm-up programme, healthy musicianship. One of 4 Where is your music? If on a or air-conditioned rooms. available as a small concertina these is entitled ‘Fit to Sing’, stand, check the stand height 9 Your general lifestyle can booklet, or an A2 poster. with tips on vocal health—of and sight-lines, eg to your affect your singing: make the mind and the body as well accompanist. If you are sure you are eating and as the voice. holding the music, feel its sleeping properly. weight and consider a stand 10 A mixture of regular exercise 1 Always warm up physically if it is heavy or bulky. (eg swimming or sport) and before you sing. In particu- 5 Vision and hearing can affect relaxation will help maxim- lar, stretch and loosen up your neck and upper body ise our potential and main- your neck, shoulders, and posture; have them checked tain your vocal health. Per- upper back. This doesn’t periodically. If you need forming is stressful and ten- glasses or lenses to see the sion can cause pain and stiff- music or the conductor, use ness. Find something that them! you enjoy, it’s more likely to 6 Plan practice sessions to help! allow frequent short breaks 11 Remember that you are mu- in singing. The biggest risk sical athlete and your perfor- factor for a breakdown in mance depends on you tak- your vocal health is a sudden ing good care of yourself. increase in the quantity or Think twice about attending quality of practice, eg in the a party or going to a noisy run-up to a concert or audi- pub in the days before a con- tion. If something stats to ache, stop and loosen Ronnie was intrigued by Mick’s new vocal warm-up routine up. Use a kitchen timer to have to take a long time, but remind you should be before your vocal if a break is warm-up. Repeat this after due—every singing, to allow cooling 20 minutes down. or so. The tenors were suddenly having second thoughts 2 Ensure your technique is 7 Your over- sound—poor technical hab- all health, its may lead to tension and physical build and voice type cert. Watch out for acci- muscular strain. Seek pro- may make some repertoire dents: take care with danger- fessional advice, whatever more uncomfortable for you. ous sports and DIY. your level of experience. Respect your limitations. 12 There is a world outside 3 Check your posture when 8 If you have a cold or sore music! Keep your hobbies singing, using a mirror or throat, remember vocal rest and outside interests going to video camera. Look at the and hydration. Vocal rest avoid getting over-focused overall balance of your body, does not necessarily mean on your singing. Issue 42 Page 15

ERIC WHITACRE—WHY BRITISH CHOIRS ARE BEST A couple of years ago Gramo- Youth Choirs of Great Britain; like in the line “giving their phone magazine asked an inter- recording my album “Light & kisses like clouds exchanging national jury to name the Gold” with the Eric Whitacre foam”, a line from my a cappella worlds’ leading choirs, and then Singers (all Brits) and Laudi- work A boy and a girl—there is invited American composer bus; and most recently, concerts little that’s more sweet or more Eric Whitacre to reflect on why with the London Symphony affecting. the list is dominated by British Chorus and the Welsh choir ensembles. Here’s what he Cordydd. After much thought ‘Knowledge: British choirs said. I’m finally beginning to under- simply get it. I’m sure it comes stand what makes these British from the centuries-old tradition ‘At the age of 18, when I first choirs so incredible. of singing but there is a sea- began singing in choirs, I de- soned polish and an attitude voured every choral recording I ‘Tuning: perhaps the most pow- about the music-making that is could find. I collected a huge erful weapon in the technical at once soulful and unsenti- and varied number of choral arsenal of a choir, choristers in mental, expressive without discs but over time realised that the UK are taught from a very being maudlin. They have the I was partial to those albums early age not only to sing in beating hearts of singers and the performed by British choirs. tune but to listen to those brains of trained musicians and Three recordings stand out in around them. A perfect exam- this places them among the my memory: Vaughan Wil- ple is Alamire, David Skinner’s most potent and versatile artists liams’s An Oxford Elegy, Stephen phenomenal early music group on the planet. Darlington conducting Christ to which I have recently been Church Cathedral choir; Arvo introduced, a choir that sings so ‘I certainly do not underesti- mate the influence of such ex- Pärt’s Passio from the Hilliard in tune that the music seems to traordinary choral conductors Ensemble; and the “Treasures shimmer and float in front of as John Eliot Gardiner, Ste- of English Church Music”, the speakers. phen Layton and Harry Chris- John Rutter conducting the ‘Sight-reading: the Brits are tophers. What can I say? I am THE WORLD’S TOP 2O CHOIRS Cambridge Singers. I loved possibly the world’s greatest genuinely in awe of the British 1 The Monteverdi Choir these recordings, and marvelled sight-readers. In my travels I’ve choral tradition and look for- 2 Polyphony at such perfect singing. 3 The Cardinal’s Musick certainly never seen anything ward to each opportunity that I 4 The Sixteen ‘Then, suddenly, five years ago, like it. Every time I rehearse a have to listen to and work with 5 Choir of Trinity College, I received an email from Ste- choir here I am astonished at the many and varied exception- Cambridge phen Layton, letting me know how quickly they parse the al choirs.’ 6 Wells Cathedral Choir that he had discovered a few music and absorb it. When we 7 Collegium Vocale Ghent pieces of mine in a music store recorded “Light & Gold” the The full article can be found at (Belgium) in Amsterdam and would I be Eric Whitacre Singers and Gramophone Online, 8 Accentus (France) 9 RIAS Kammerchor kind enough to send him every- Laudibus had just six hours to www.gramophone.co.uk/features read through and rehearse 8 (Germany) thing I’d ever written. I did— 10 Swedish Radio Choir minutes of my music. Good and one year later he sent me 11 The Dunedin Consort the finished disc “Cloudburst”, singers here are simply ex- 12 Choir of King’s College, performed by his incredible pected to read. Cambridge choir Polyphony. Never had I 13 ‘Tone: bright and clear, with a dreamed that my music would 14 Choir of New College, healthy spin and not too much one day be so beautifully and Oxford vibrato. I love the warm, long, masterfully recorded by such a 15 Les Arts Florissants open vowels, the purity of the (France) quintessentially British choir. vowel colour being perfect for 16 Westminster Abbey Choir ‘Since that time I have had the the close harmonies in my mu- 17 The Balthasar-Neumann Choir (Germany) great privilege to work with a sic. I love the way the women 18 Stile Antico can sing in their upper registers, number of choirs in the UK, 19 Arnold Schoenberg Choir with each experience being a rich and crystalline. And when (Austrial) thrill: writing a piece for The a British choir truly dedicate 20 I Fagiolini King’s Singers and the National themselves to the consonants— Page 16 Hemiola

BRITTEN’S : BEIJING 2012 BY SUE MASON

We did it! the singers note-bash by them- though his choir consists of Kate, Jenny, selves, and can come together many different nationalities: Helen, Brian, in the week before the concert French, German, Spanish and Mike plus for intensive rehearsals, then Italian to name but a few. We two singers they can take part. This system were sometimes a bit slow on from KEMS works well in China, where the the uptake if he shouted page or and our own singers all hold down very busy bar numbers in Chinese. groupies. jobs, and cannot commit to a The children’s choir and solo- After two weekly rehearsal. This meant ists joined us for the last re- years of plan- that St Georges’ singers could hearsal in the Children’s Palace ning, our be part of the concert too, and the numbers squashed into invitation to providing we arrived in time for the room must have contra- sing with the those essential rehearsals. vened every health and safety prestigious Beijing International Note-bashing by ourselves, we rule, but that’s China, where Festival Chorus became a reali- then gathered at the home of they have rules about perform- ty in October. Jackie and Paul Burfitt for ing Verdi’s Requiem, but seem- This was no mean feat, espe- some proper sessions with a ingly don’t have any rules on cially as the concert was to take conductor, James, who put us health and safety. place only one week before the through our paces. On the day of the concert, we whole of Beijing became in- So it was with regret that Jackie gathered at the Beijing Concert volved with the selection of the and Paul were unable to come Hall for our final rehearsal. The new Chinese Government: a with us to China due to a fami- hall is a vast modern auditori- once every ten years event lead- ly bereavement. Other singers um seating 2,500. We were able ing to a lock down in the area fell by the wayside due to ill to see and hear the young of The Forbidden City. health and the rest of us almost American violinist Kenneth We were invited to China be- didn’t get there at all due to fog Arthur Renshaw who had won cause the in Heathrow, making our plane the 2012 Yehudi Menuhin Vio- conduc- from Manchester late so we lin Competition and who tor, Nick missed our connection to Bei- would be performing Mendels- Smith jing. sohn’s Violin Concerto in the first OBE Arriving a day late we hit the half. knew ground running, checking into And so to our performance: We Richard our hotel then visiting the fabu- and the soloists felt that we had Savage lous Temple of Heaven and done this very tricky piece jus- and Andy finally gathering for our first tice. The audience enjoyed the Staples: rehearsal under the baton of concert, and I have it on good two pro- Nick Smith. authority that there were sever- fessionals This rehearsal, complete with al ambassadors present. who had orchestra, took place in the But we were not in China just both sung Children’s Palace, a group of to sing. We managed to fit in with St rooms around courtyards dedi- most of the must-see sights in George’s, On stage in the Beijing Concert Hall cated to the arts especially for Beijing: Forbidden City, Sum- were children. The buildings are very mer Palace and of course the friends of close to the Forbidden City and Great Wall. The second city on Nick Smith are decorated in that style with our itinerary was Xi-An where the Beijing conductor and who beautiful blue and gold panels we visited the excavation site of could give us a good reference: and pillars. The rooms however the Terracotta Warriors, the Big we weren’t just a bunch of ran- are small so it was a squeeze Grey Goose Pagoda and the dom troubadours, after all! fitting us all in. city walls as well as experienc- The IFC is run along the British Nick conducts in Chinese for ing delicious local dumpling festival chorus system. The his orchestra Peking Sinfoniet- delicacies in a concert of local music is selected, and providing ta, and in English for the choir, music and dance. Issue 42 Page 17

From here our party split up jumped ship and visited a col- dropped a paper which we with Michael Calam and his league from Cheshire, now picked up. When I had it trans- family going off to the hills to living in Suzhou. Jenny had lated by an American friend, it trace their family history also made a contact in Beijing was revealed to be complaint around Kuling, against the govern- miles away from ment. The woman who the major cities. dropped it was last Meanwhile, a seen being bundled small group of us away by the police and travelled onto secret police. During Shanghai, and we this time of political had fun there ex- sensitivity, even taxi ploring the Bund – drivers had their win- its beautiful pre- dow winding handles war buildings removed in case people including the As- threw such papers into tor Hotel, the the street. Fascinating British Consulate though not surprising. buildings and the In Shanghai a recent Customs House Xi-An: a small selection of the Terracotta warriors discovered in the first pit innovation is the Satur- with its glorious day ‘marriage market’ octagonal ceiling where hundreds of paintings, and parents gather with clock based on Big Ben. Harrow School with a teacher paper details of their unmarried Another must-see in Shanghai colleague now working there. son or daughter. This with a is Yu Yuan – the ‘old city’ The networking on behalf of St hope of making contacts with a where the best view is to be had Georges continued. view to marriage – a direct con- from the roof top restaurant and The comments from all the sequence of the one child poli- Theatre above the hustling members of the party could be cy. There were hundreds gath- summed up by ered there. Kate Fuggle And because we in the West who said it was are told that religious worship An ‘agent’ with photographs of possi- ‘absolutely fasci- in China is banned, seeing the ble marriageable people (above) and nating’. Cathedral of St Francis Xavier, a wall of adverts (below) Things that I built in 1847, which is still very found fascinat- much in use on Sundays for ing: Catholic worship by Chinese Ben, our guide Nationals. Now the surround- Shanghai: a view of the east side of the Bund across the Huang in Beijing, who ing old streets have been Pu River was prepared to cleared, the Cathedral stands talk about his out with its ‘flower fairies’ stat- shops and crowds. government in less than glow- ues on the wall alongside an- We stayed at the Moller House ing terms; who loved double gels. Hotel – an iconic French con- decker buses—and Boris John- This is just my brief account of cession building which features son, who by cycling, was an our fabulous holiday. But don’t in all the guide books. I did example to the Chinese mayors take my word for it: I am sure help a lost tourist with map in who swan around in black lim- the others have things to say hand, who was looking for this ousines. about this wonderful singing House and it turned out that he But then we witnessed an at- opportunity that we were given. was the nephew of Sir William tempt by a local woman to Mather of Whirley Maccles- bring her grievance to Beijing. field. It is indeed a small world. In a flurry of shouts and scuffles Meanwhile, Jenny Limond also in TianAn Men Square, she Page 18 Hemiola

THE BEAR GOES BACK TO THE MOUNTAIN BY MICHAEL CALAM

of her life: and we have a photo of her there, in snow, clutching her doll, and a teddy bear which we still have.

It was not diffi- cult to find Kuling, or Gu- ling as it is known since the spelling reform. Michael with brother David, sister Rachel—and bear The mountain, Lushan, is well known to the The Beijing trip gave the Chinese both for Calams (Michael, brother Da- its beauty (it is vid and sister Rachel) a special now a national opportunity to return to family park) and be- roots, because our mother was cause other for- born in China. mer residents have included Our grandparents were mission- Chiang Kai-Shek and Mao Tse-

On the Thousand Steps path with Chinese aries, and Mum and Granny Tung. guide, Nancy told stories of the little town on There is a road up now, and the a mountain top little town swarms with visitors. that the western- We found the Thousand Steps ers built 3,000 and the school where our gran- feet above the ny taught; though the family heat and pollu- tion of the Yang- home eluded us (a lot has A street market in Guling tze valley, and changed since 1926!)

called Kuling It was the opportunity of a life- (because it was time, and we are so glad we cooling … ) took it. The contrast with Bei-

We heard how jing was total: we were in coun- there was no try China, and saw virtually no road, so every- western faces: and, with the thing had to be help of our Chinese guide, we carried up the sampled local delicacies we ‘Thousand Steps’ could never have found by our- selves. path by coolies.

Kuling is where And, for old times’ sake, the our mother was bear came too. born and spent the first six years Issue 42 Page 19

MINDFUL MUSIC

Mindful music. Er—what? only to the musicians, but to second—the ‘mindful’ one. The According to a research study knowledgeable listeners. Ac- musicians reported that they at Harvard University in 2008, cording to the research report, too found the second perfor- when we sing or play music ‘Practice, if simply viewed as mance more enjoyable, with ‘mindlessly’ we’re trapped in repetition, does not make per- more energy and wider dynam- rigid mindsets. On the other fect but merely permanent. ic range. In other words, recre- hand, if we sing ‘mindfully’ we Individual attention to novel ating an ‘ideal’ performance actively draw on novel distinc- distinctions and subtle nuances proved stultifying, whilst look- tions rather than relying on appears to alter the process of ing for new nuances was liber- Famous musical psychologists: No 1 historical or past distinctions. creative ensemble performance ating, did not lead to break- Rules, routines and mindsets and lead to music that is more down in discipline, and led to a are roadblocks to creativity. enjoyable to perform and hear.’ more passionate performance. Still not getting it? Listen up. Arizona State University music According to the conductor, Harvard psychologist Ellen professor Timothy Russell led ‘By definition, an orchestral Langer undertook two studies two performance by the ASU conductor tries to get everybody student orchestras of the same to do things in one coordinated to test the hypothesis that ac- In a class on abnormal psychology, tively creating novel distinc- piece: the finale from Brahms’s way. By giving the instruction the instructor was about to tions, noticing new things, and First Symphony. Before the first to everybody to find some nu- introduce the subject of manic portraying them during a per- performance he told the orches- ance of their own and play it depression. formance is preferable to at- tra to ‘think about the finest that way, you might expect She posed this question to her tempting to recreate a past per- performance of this piece that chaos. But we found that was- students: ‘How would you diagnose formance. Orchestral musicians you can remember. Play it that n’t the case at all. What all the a patient who walks back and forth and choral singers are ‘the as- way.’ Before the second, he musicians pretty much did was screaming at the top of his lungs one minute, then sits in a chair sembly-line workers of the arts instructed: ‘Play this piece in put more effort into what they the finest manner you can, of- were supposed to be doing any- weeping uncontrollably the next?’ world’. They’re asked to exe- A young man in the rear raised his fering subtle new nuances to way.’ Ellen Langer comment- cute the same task again and hand and suggested earnestly, your performance.’ ed: ‘When Russell told a group again—a method that may be ‘a conductor’. efficient for producing consum- of people to essentially do Members of an experienced er goods, but not one to pro- things their own way—subtly local choir were asked if they mote inspired performances. different but still their own heard a difference after listening way—you ended up with a The answer is to ask them to to recordings of both. Over- superior group performance.’ stay focused, alert and open to whelmingly they said yes. From the Psychology of Music journal new discoveries. The results are Which did they prefer? Again, http://pom.sagepub.com/ immediate and noticeable, not overwhelmingly, they said the content/37/2/125.abstract

HOW MUSIC WORKS: REVIEW

Do you know why Chinese and much more about the phys- that professional musicians may people are more likely to have ics of music. Powell, a classi- not be aware of. perfect pitch than Westerners? cally trained composer and What the difference is between physics professor, reveals a However, he doesn’t touch on a musical note and a loud collection of little-known facts the one particularly vexatious noise? Why the notes Mozart and intriguing science behind question that is currently engag- heard were not the same as the basics of harmony, scales, ing us as we rehearse Britten’s those we hear today? Or even chords, keys, rhythm, and what Rejoice in the Lamb. If harp why ten basses aren’t ten times makes a good tune. Written in rhimes are bell well, flute as loud as one? a light-hearted manner that’s rhimes are tooth youth, and easy to understand for listeners bassoon rhimes are pass class, A book by John Powell, How and non-musicians, it also con- what does that make the cat Music Works, explains all this tains lots of fascinating facts Jeoffry? St George’s Singers

For more information, please contact:

Peter Marcus (Chair), 07961 900747 [email protected]

Jacqui Smith (Secretary), 01625 533779 [email protected]

Hemiola Editor: Susan Hodgson [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 isWilliams.the continued types of by customers our present orMusical members Director, StNeil George’s Taylor. Singers St George’s is now Singers recognised is now as onerecognised of the leading as one ofand the most leading innovative and most

choirsinnovativeserved. in the choirs North in West the North of England, West of performing England, performingan astonishingly an astonishingly varied reper- var-

toire,ied repertoire, and with and around with 120 around members 100 members drawn from drawn an areafrom far an beyondarea far the beyond communi- the To receive a regular copy of Hemiola, It would also be useful to include a contact name for readers who want tycommunity of Poynton. of Poynton. We present We at present least four at leastmajor four concerts major a concerts year, in avenues year, inincluding venues complete the Mailing List registration on the Theincludingmore Bridgewater information The Bridgewater Hall about and Royal Hall, the Gortonorganization.Northern Monastery, College of Manchester Music, hold Cathedral annual Singing and website, or contact the Publicity Officer. Days,Royal andNorthern tour regularly College ofin Music,the UK hold and annualabroad. Singing Now under Days, Musical and tour Director regularly Neil in Taylor,the UK Stand George’s abroad. Singers St George’s continues Singers to explorecontinues and to expand explore the and boundaries expand the of choralboundaries music. of choral music, and communicating the sheer enjoyment of singing Entrytogether. to the Entry Choir to theis via Choir audition, is via andaudition, new members and new aremembers welcome are towelcome come along to tocome rehearsals along to at rehearsals any time. at any time.

ST GEORGE’S 2012-2013 SEASON THE BELLS, THE BELLS …!

24–27 May, 2013 The city of Paris is gearing up mark the 850th anni- for St George’s Singers by in- versary of the Cathe- Paris Tour: concerts in Notre Dame stalling new bells in Notre dral's founding in Cathedral, La Madeleine, American Dame Cathedral. The French 1163. Church, and St Eustache Church revolutionaries melted down The new bells, weigh- the north tower bells into can- ing 23 tons in total, nons, declaring Notre Dame to Sunday 23 June, 7.30pm and named after saints be a temple to the Cult of Rea- The Monastery, Manchester and prominent Catho- son and the Cult of the Su- GLORIA! lics, will be hoisted preme Being. New bells were into the two great Vivaldi Gloria, installed in the 19th century, towers in time for Handel Dixit Dominus, dating from different periods Easter and will be throughout Notre Dame's histo- Nisi Dominus, heard for the first time ry, but are now out of tune with Vivaldi L’estro armonico when they peal out on each other and with the one 23 March, the day surviving Great Bell, before Palm Sunday. Friday 5 July, 7.30pm ‘Emmanuel’. CaptionBridgewater describing Hall, picture Manchester or The harmonious bells graphic. Regarded as one of the finest will, in theory, recre- Britten Ballad of Heroes church bells in the world, emit- ate the sound which ting a rich, F sharp, second- called Parisians to octave boom, Emmanuel has work or prayer Ticket Hotline: 01663 764012 hung in the cathedral since the throughout the 18th [email protected] 17th century, but is now old century. We look CAPTION COMPETITION Online: and frail, so can only be used forward to hearing on special occasions. So nine them on our tour to Send your captions to the editor—winning entry gets a www.st-georges-singers.org.uk prize (to be determined!) new bells have been cast to Paris!