The choir's performance was a wonderful celebration of variety, both in terms of its members and the music it presented. It was refreshing to see a choir made up of individuals of all ages and genders, a beautiful representation of the community spirit that defines such a gathering. The evening kicked off with a fun and energetic number in Chattanooga Choo Choo, which set the tone for a night full of variety and flair. A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square followed, showcasing the upper voices of the choir, beautifully highlighting the range of talent within the group, illustrating the depth and range of the ensemble. There were moments that particularly delighted the younger audience members, such as the vibrant African songs from Mike Brewer’s Hamba Lulu collection, which were playful and full of energy. This was followed by songs focusing on male voices, Shenandoah and The Wellerman, which brought an added richness and contrast to the performance.
One of the highlights of the evening was the use of different soloists throughout the concert, David Nickson, Richard Dean, Geoff Willis and Nigel Haywood, each one bringing their own flair and personality to the stage. There were also a couple of moments where the choir performed without sheet music, allowing for greater connection and engagement with the music director, Sophie Hawthorn. This offered a glimpse into the group's strong cohesion and the trust between choir members and their conductor. The choir was accompanied by a talented trio of instrumentalists: bassist Ben Markland, jazz drummer Tom Warrilow, and resident pianist Richard Syner. The instrumentalists added an extra layer of depth to the music, and Syner’s own composition of three English folk songs felt especially unique and serene—almost like a stroll through a summer garden.
After the interval, the choir presented the main piece of the evening, A Little Jazz Mass by Bob Chilcott, which had inspired the entire programme. The smooth fusion of jazz and classical styles made for a captivating experience, and it was clear that the choir had truly embraced the spirit of the work. Smaller groups within the choir also performed a few songs, and these intimate performances were a joy to listen to, adding variety and charm to the evening. To wrap up the concert, the choir showcased some lively jazz numbers, Blue Skies and Puttin’ on the Ritz, that had the whole ensemble smiling and visibly enjoying themselves. This energy was contagious, and it perfectly encapsulated the spirit of a community choir—one that fosters connection, joy, and a shared love of music. Overall, the evening was an uplifting and engaging display of musical talent, and it was clear that the choir not only entertained but also deeply connected with its audience.