Sunday 16 November 2014
Chorister, Geraint Hopkins writes - This concert was inspirational and a welcome return visit to Surrey.
Despite the Leatherhead M25 hole in the motorway, the concert started on time. It was one of those afternoon concerts which is difficult to explain how the chemistry between choir and audience moved forward. It was touching, tender and heart-rending to so many, especially during this poignant month of remembrance. The Rector, Graham Osborne said, “This concert was inspirational. It took to the heights we looked for and it rocketed even further.”
The full Bridgend Male Choir musical team of Rhiannon Williams-Hale; Stephanie Bailey & Scott Williams were in excellent form, the choir was in good voice and the audience was warm and welcoming. Dotted amongst the audience were exiles who were just as enthusiastic as the rest of the audience and they loved the sound of the choir.
Out of all the programme, the section that was dedicated to the remembrance of the centenary of the 1914 start of WW1 and of those in WW2 and other conflicts applauded all three songs in the tribute. Mike Sammes’ arrangement of For the Fallen stunned them all, but the congregation was quite overwhelmed by Soldier's Farewell and Mansions of the Lord and sat in reflective silence before breaking into a quiet reflective appreciation. Another memorable afternoons return to Leatherhead is likely to result in future repetition at this beautiful Church & to this appreciative congregation. This concert was inspirational to all including the choir.