Trowbridge Chorus at Holy Trinity Church

THE anticipation that followed a name change for the Trowbridge singers was reinforced by the exciting spring concert at Holy Trinity on Saturday 13th May.

Formed in 1906 as Trowbridge Philhar­monic Choral Society, members thought it was time for a change, and Trowbridge Chorus was chosen as a name to encourage new members and reflect their expan­ded repertoire. Under the baton of Ruth McKibbin, the choir has taken on new challenges and grown in confidence.

They were joined by tenor Paul Bambrough and baritone Niall Hoskin, singing solos and duets, including those with the choir’s MD, an Australian soprano and choral conductor who has made Somerset her home for the past 11 years.

Their accompanist was Ben Jarvis, for both rehearsals and the performance, and the deputy conductor was John Lauder, who now fulfils the same role with Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra.

The programme certainly allowed the choir to show off its versatility. The first half ranged through Mendelssohn, Mozart, Faure, Franck, Verdi and Wagner and after the interval there were spirituals, Gilbert and Sullivan and works by Gershwin with arrangements by Bob Chilcott.

It is extraordinary what a mixed choir can achieve with inspired leadership and the confidence it brings. Trowbridge Chorus was in fine voice for their early 2017 offering, evidently enjoying the experience as much as their audience did.

GP-W

[Photographs taken at afternoon rehearsal.]

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