A '˜thrilling' performance by choristers for Aberfan

AFTER months of rehearsals, choristers have proudly performed at a moving concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
Solent Male Voice ChoirSolent Male Voice Choir
Solent Male Voice Choir

The Solent Male Voice Choir said its members had the time of lives at the London landmark for the 25th London Welsh Festival of Male Choirs on Saturday.

The Aberfan tragedy, in which 116 children and 28 adults were killed in catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip 50 years ago, was remembered in song.

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Solent’s secretary David Stretton said: ‘There were tearful faces in the capacity audience of 5,500 as they heard the London Welsh choir and four professional singers perform the tribute Don’t Go Chasing Shadows composed by their director Edward-Rhys Harry.

‘It was a highlight among many. Solent and their fellow choristers created a thrilling wall of sound as they sang seven songs in Welsh and many others such as the evocative Working Man, which imagines miners rebelling against going underground.

‘They sang songs from the First World War and lyrical pieces The Rose and Serenade by Bizet.’

Solent were among 14 choirs, from places as diverse as Hong Kong and Boston, celebrating the 25th London Welsh Festival of Male Choirs.

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Solent’s musical director Geoff Porter and accompanist Michael Winter and other choir leaders were presented to concert -goers and met London Welsh’s president, broadcaster Huw Edwards.

Solent’s choristers, who rehearse at St Faith’s Church Hall, Havant, but are from across the area, were supported by friends and members of their ladies committee, such as Fiona Rutherford.

Fiona said: ‘I’m so proud of our choristers for the magnificent performance they gave. The concert was moving and emotionally-charged, particularly the tribute to Aberfan. Everyone involved with the choir should be extremely proud.’

Choir director Geoff said: ‘Our men and their supporters enjoyed it greatly and the combined sound of 600 choristers was thrilling.’

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