Music In The Afternoon

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Only two weeks following the Longridge Band Concert, Christ Church was yet again the venue for a musical feast.  Joyce Tindsley (Mezzo Soprano), making a welcome return visit along with Matthew Balson (Trumpet) and Geoff Balson (Piano and Organ), delighted the hundred plus audience with a varied programme of vocal and instrumental items.

Matthew’s solos (on both Piccolo and Bb trumpets) were by Purcell, Handel and Thalben Ball with a final demonstration of his virtuosic abilities in a vibrant performance of ‘Carnival of Venice’.

Geoff, who accompanied on both piano and organ, also gave an enthusiastic solo piano performance of ‘Hymnody’, an original selection of some of his particular favourite worship hymns and songs.

Joyce began the concert by presenting a favourite of Kathleen Ferrier, ‘What is life to me without thee’ by Gluck followed by the folk song, ‘Blow the Wind Southerly’, another song with a Ferrier association. Her songs journeyed through the years and gave an impressive presentation of her vocal range and expertise with American Songs by Copland,  two songs each from Elgar’s ‘Sea Pictures’  and   Ivor Novello’s ‘The Dancing Years’.  ‘The Gas Man Cometh’, by Flanders and Swann, brought a smile to all and was followed by a beautiful rendition of ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’ from Mama Mia. Her final set of three songs flowed together in a relaxed medley of popular blues.

The appreciative applause of the audience, who had gathered from a wide area, was rewarded with a trio arrangement of the popular sacred song ‘The Lost Chord’.

The concert, which was in aid of the Sierra Leone Project, was introduced by John Spencer, who has made several visits and been involved in the project for some years now.  He gave an update on the work and hopes for future developments. Crafts from Sierra Leone and items of ‘One Off’ jewellery were available to browse and buy afterwards and light refreshments were served.  It was good to welcome back Joyce’s husband, Michael, our former minister, along with members of the family.

Thank you Joyce, Matthew and Geoff for a truly enjoyable performance; and for sharing your musical gifts for such a worthy cause with over £550 being raised on the day.

Watch this space for ‘More Music in the Afternoon’!

Carol Rose

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