One day, during a music lesson at school, we were singing parts from the Mikado when our music master, Geoffrey Tristram, walked along the rows of boys singling out a few of us. He finally announced that he wanted us to sing as choirboys in Christchurch Priory where he was organist and choirmaster. I very much enjoyed my time there, especially the weddings when we earned half-a-crown a time.
My voice suddenly broke when I had my tonsils out, aged just 13, and that was the end of my singing for nearly twenty years. Upon moving to Rolleston back in 1986 I was persuaded to join Rolleston Choral Society. By this time my musical talents had diminished to near zero but I was encouraged by Eric Levitt, an excellent baritone, and slowly I managed to copy his sounds a few milliseconds later. Singing lessons with Coral Gould some years ago certainly helped. I have gained many friends through membership of Rolleston Choral Society. The social side is very strong and many members, including me, after choir practice on a Wednesday evening can usually be found in one of the local hostelries. I encourage anyone who enjoys singing to join us.
Paul