Maidenbeech School, Crewkerne
In November we held a choral workshop - a partnership with youth choirs and schools in the region. The workshop for students (ages 16-25), included specialist vocal warm-ups and coaching, culminating in a performance of John Rutter’s Magnificat and Mike Brewer’s Hamba Lulu African songs, under the directorship of Graham Caldbeck. We were also joined by Friends of the Choir and parents. Everyone much enjoyed the opportunity to work together and share their achievements at the end of the day.
SCC workshops aim to promote continued choral singing in Somerset, particularly the transition from school choir to County Youth Choir and beyond, involving singers with appropriately challenging music. As a choir part of our mission is to provide quality singing opportunities for young people, to help them develop and provide a focus for their work, to involve them in the musical community in an informed, positive and active way, recognising their musical, spiritual, social and cultural needs generally. We feel particularly that young musicians need connections to help them understand their potential and the direction in which they are going in this rapidly changing world.
As we approach our 20th anniversary, we will continue to make music together and develop a real appreciation of the choral tradition at the highest level. Congratulations to all involved and thank you to everyone who kindly supported the day.
Robert Tucker, Chairman