10 February 2024: Stowmarket Chorale hosted a Community Come and Sing event at the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, directed by William Baldry, with accompanist Richard Cook

Review: Almost every day now we hear about the benefits to health and wellbeing that singing, especially with others, can bring. On February 10th the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts in Stowmarket hosted a Singing Day organised by Stowmarket Chorale, where any and all who would like to, could come and experience what singing with a choir is actually like. Under the expert guidance of the Chorale’s friendly, enthusiastic Music Director William Baldry and its wonderfully sensitive accompanist Richard Cook, a total of 76 singers, both local and from across East Anglia, spent an exhilarating few hours rehearsing music from the Chorale’s next two concerts. Vivaldi’s much loved, joyous “Gloria” will be part of the summer concert at The Stowmarket United Reformed Church on Saturday 9th June, while in complete contrast young English composer Alexander L’Estrange’s luscious song cycle “Love’s Philosophy” will be part of the Chorale’s next concert on Saturday March 9th at the JPC, which also includes Elgar’s majestic “Sea Pictures”. Participants commented on their warm welcome and said they had had a thoroughly enjoyable day. As a result, the Chorale is going to be benefitting from some new members!

New members are always welcome at any time of year, and details about all the choir’s activities can be found on its website at www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk

AUTHOR: Vivienne Sweet