It was a huge privilege to be in the audience at Bridgend Male Choir’s 59th Annual Concert at
the Sony Theatre, Bridgend College on Friday 11th October. Sixty four choristers were joined by the wonderfully talented soloist tenor, Richard Allen, and the exceptional Oldcastle Primary School Choir. The expectant packed audience were not to be disappointed. The hard work and dedication of the music team, Ryan Wood, Stewart Roberts, Scott Williams and Stephanie Bailey was evident throughout. Stewart Roberts expertly accompanied several pieces on cello and beautifully performed a solo. He and Ryan then performed a wonderful duet with Ryan on piano and Stewart on cello. A varied programme from all artistes delighted the audience. The children, led by Charlotte Ellet, were amazing and it was wonderful to hear singers of all ages joining to celebrate music. There were many highlights particularly Anfonaf Angel which the choir sung with passion in memory of the much loved and recently passed chorister Bill Hodge, ‘Singin’in the rain’ was performed with humour when a few mischievous choristers fired water pistols into the air and Scott Williams thrilled us with a skilful rendition of Finale-Organ Sonata No.1 (Op.42) Alexandre Guilmant. Richard and Charlotte delighted us with a passionate and moving duet from 'La Boheme'. The audience could not help but participate in the combined rendition of’Kalinka’ between Richard Allen and Bridgend Male Choir. The musical banter between them was humorous and clever and along with ‘Homeward Bound’ and familiar favourite ’American Trilogy’, brought an excellent close to a wonderful evening. Presentations were made by President Paul Porter to the music team, Beverley Humphreys and Chairman Gareth Davies. Special presentations of Life Membership certificates were made to choristers John Davey and Iori Morgan for forty years loyal service to the choir.
Many comments were heard from individuals about the concert being the best they've experienced in many years. Well done to all.
Jan Craddock