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Autumn 2005 <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL My Dear Friends I hope you have all enjoyed your summer. We have been very lucky with our weather haven’t we? In fact it has been rather too hot for me at times when I am working (I dislike people intensely who moan about the weather!) As I write this letter I am looking forward to a short but beautiful break in the Lake District. Kentwood has been very busy over the past few months. Last week alone, we had 3 concerts. A wonderful concert at Guildford Cathedral singing as guests of the Association of British Choral Directors. I actually presented two workshops at this event. A great honour! We also sang at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, to the British Voice Association and then we sang at a Golden Wedding Celebration in a marquee at Lechlade. The whole choir were treated to a meal at this event. We are all very excited to be singing at John Dankworth and Cleo Laine’s 5th birthday bash at their Stables Theatre. We will be sharing the stage with Laurie Holloway, Richard Stilgoe, Rolf Harris, Stacey Kent, Chas n’ Dave – to name but a few of the artists. John has composed a song especially for us for this event called “Celebration”. Quite difficult! We are also singing at Chepstow and Weston Super Mare. I understand tickets are selling very fast for our Christmas Cracker at the Wyvern. See you there Love Sheila PS: Did you enjoy the Junior Show at the Arts Centre? A lot of work but well worth it. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> THE KENTWOOD SHOW CHOIR IN CONCERT AT THE HILTON HOTEL Time seems to fly by these days! I expect like many people I found it hard to believe that a year had gone by and here we were getting prepared for the 11th Hilton Concert! The concert is a marvellous fundraising event with a great atmosphere and this year was no exception. In the presence of The Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon, Lady Talbot, Macmillan’s Wiltshire Chairman and the Choir’s new sponsors, Handys, a wonderfully varied programme was brilliantly performed by the Choir and superb soloists. It was a great hit and hugely enjoyed by the capacity audience. We were delighted that Paul Maguire was able to be part of the Concert and entertain us with his magical playing. We know the effort Sheila and the Choir make to attend this Concert and give us such a wonderful evening of entertainment. We are indebted to them all for their great support. Congratulations to all who received awards this year. I wonder how many choirs can claim so many years of membership. It was a special occasion for us as well with two of our Committee receiving awards from Lady Talbot, who greatly enjoys attending the Concert. This year a record amount was raised - £2,703.32! Over the years a staggering sum of over £25,000 has helped us maintain vital services and put into place new posts. The money raised this year will go to The Swindon and Marlborough Macmillan Nurses Appeal now standing at £750,000. The first £600,000, raised in 21 months, put into place two Macmillan nurses at The Great Western Hospital and a consultant in palliative care medicine. This means a team of 13 Macmillan nurses and a consultant are able to provide practical and emotional support within the local community. The £400,000 needed for the second phase will provide 2 training posts for Macmillan nurses. A Macmillan clinical psychologist in cancer and palliative care will be the first ever appointed between The Great Western Hospital and the Prospect Hospice. The appeal will also provide more patient grants for people with financial difficulties because of their cancer. It is said that you always leave an audience wanting more – that was certainly the case again this year. Thank you Sheila and the Choir for your great kindness and generosity and helping us help those living with cancer in this area. Gill Thornton <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> OUR “HANDY” LOCAL CHOIR Saturday 13 August saw the official launch of Kentwood Show Choir’s new sponsor, “Handy GARDEN Machinery”. Despite the weather, Sheila Harrod and a group of her Show Choir attended Handys at the Wyvale Garden Centre for the launch. Sheila said ‘How honoured she was that Mr Mayor could attend”. The Choir were, as always, in fine voice and they sang some very appropriate numbers including “Feeling Good” and “For the Beauty of the Earth”. Derek of Handys said a few words. He wanted everyone to know that his deep reason for wanting to help Kentwood was because of the amount of charity work that Sheila and her Choir do. He stated that he loved to see the Choir perform and he hoped that the relationship between Kentwood and Handys would last for a long time to come. He also said it was a pleasure to become Kentwood’s sponsor and he hoped that both of these established companies could help one another out. The Mayor congratulated Derek and Handys on their wisdom on taking on Kentwood. He felt that they would be a good team and said the relationship now meant we could call Kentwood our own “Handy Local Choir”. After a toast Sheila took to the tractor and was surrounded by Mr Mayor, Derek and Choir members for a memorable photograph. Kerry Richings <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> ABCD Conference - 27 August 2005 A few years ago I was asked to accompany Sheila to the ABCD (Associated Board of Choral Directors) Conference in Oxford, and this was my introduction to this prestigious event. From this event we took our famous “Oxford Spot” which highlighted many of the choir’s top numbers of that time. We met many new friends, Bob Chilcott to name but one. I don’t think Sheila expected for one minute that we would be asked again to perform at the Gala Concert on the Saturday night, and for Sheila to be asked to present not one but two workshops. So as the day dawned Bank Holiday Saturday we all made our way to the coach and set off for Guilford. There was the usual chatter of everyone; lots back from different holidays so a good catch up by all. We arrived safely and the coach pulled up and we were greeted by Sheila waving from a first floor window. First things first, off for a cup of tea. Sheila was delighted that over 180 delegates had attended her morning workshop and how she was looking forward to the second one in the afternoon, which we were part of, ‘Revealing the Magic’. We filed into the room and the delegates were getting settled and Sheila began. We did our vocal warm-up, some scales and then began to sing “Summertime”. We then worked on “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”. Copies of the music were passed to the delegates so they were all able to follow. First we sang the piece very correctly, and then as we would in a performance. Sheila explained her way of conducting, often asking the choir to read the words to understand the meaning. The delegates then joined in the singing, with Sheila conducting them, and it was great to see how attentive they were often trying not to look at the words too much as they were so intent on watching Sheila. A quick question and answer session took place with one question asked, “Is it easier to teach younger pupils more modern pieces”? “Absolutely not”, came the reply and as Sheila said you get back what you put in. If you can feel the music and allow yourself to perform when conducting, your choir will return it back. All too soon the time was over and Sheila couldn’t resist an impromptu performance of “Alexander’s Ragtime Band”. Workshop finished. The delegates left happy and smiling and one lady came over to say that it was wonderful and kissed me on the cheek, and that she had really connected with the choir. So between you and me I think we did OK. Another chance for a cuppa, and off to the Cathedral for a rehearsal. The Cathedral was very high and narrow and we stood on the alter steps with the Reading Phoenix Choir to rehearse “The Armed Man” with the composer and director Karl Jenkins. We stood and listened to the first movement performed by the Reading Phoenix Choir and as we prepared for our section Sheila came over the soprano section and informed Gill May that she would be singing the solo line. I know that you don’t believe us always when Sheila says we never know what we’re singing next, but if you could have seen Gill’s face you wouldn’t have any doubt. Once composed, Gill began the piece and as we all knew, it was perfect. Rehearsals over, off for a light dinner. Oh good, another cup of tea. A quick change of clothes, into our Red glitter tops, make up on, ready. We filed into the Cathedral and waited for the Gala Concert to start. The Reading Phoenix opened with their spot. A very established renowned mixed choir, they gave a performance that was all ‘a cappella’. They sang various pieces, with complex harmonies. This was followed by the Taplow Junior Choir which had only been together for 10 months; they looked so lovely in a pale blue satin outfits, gave a delightful selection of songs ending with a dance and even a tap routine during “Putting on the Ritz”. Another show choir in the making……who knows? Now it was our spot, closing the first half - off we go. Do you know that we can sing for twenty minutes, but when we sit down it feels that we’ve only been there for one minute. Starting with “It Don’t Mean A Thing”, remember movements, smile, sing…., “Can you Feel the Love Tonight”, … are they watching us, remembering the workshop… “Summertime”, you could hear a pin drop, …”Every Time I Feel the Spirit”, 3rd Bob Chilcott song of the night, what will he think?...... “Alexander’s Ragtime Band”… will they think we’re as good as before?? Applause, cheers, smiles, clapping…. Oh yes, success. A quick 10 minute interval and second half begins with the Graduate Choir of New Zealand. Very powerful voices, singing in native tongue as well as English. Last two numbers very different, the first incorporating the Maori Haka, and finishing with a beautiful version of “Now is The Hour”. Now the finale, we join the Reading Phoenix on stage and await Karl Jenkins. What an honour to be able to sing with the composer conducting his own work. It begins, the Reading Phoenix start to sing, the orchestra manages to interpret marching in my head. Concentrate, Gill starts to sing the “Kyrie”, in come the choir… “Agnus Dei”, “Benedictus”, Karl is lost in his music and at one point has tears in his eyes, the performance builds with each movement culminating with the “Hymn before Action”.. I can only speak for myself but what a wonderful concert, giving so many different types of music, different languages, different interpretations, what a blessing that we had the opportunity to be part of this. A perfect end to a perfect day. Home. Terri Rhind <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> LETTER FROM BOB CHILCOTT Dear Sheila I wanted to write to express my great admiration to you and the Choir for your performance on Saturday. It really was marvellous! And I also wanted to congratulate you on your professionalism. You made the acoustic work for you, which was not easy, but what impressed me most was the attitude with which you approached the Karl Jenkins piece – you gave it your all in your typically engaging way. He was lucky to have you there. Please congratulate Gill on her wonderful singing – superb! I think the ‘Summertime’ arrangement is a bit long, the shape doesn’t quite work. I could make a suggestion if that is helpful to you. Congratulations again! The Choir is a tonic, and I sat there proud to be associated with you. With love to you and the Choir Bob <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> LETTER FROM JACKY PROTHEROE, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, ABCD CONVENTION 2005 Dear Sheila Thank you for performing at the 20th Convention ABCD Gala Concert. I was so thrilled to see you all there. It was great to have such pizzazz in the concert. You and the Choir gave of their very best and we all loved it! One of my favourites was “Evr’y Time I feel the Spirit” and wasn’t it great that Bob was there to hear the arrangement in the Cathedral? Thanks also to the Choir for the session they gave before the Concert. It certainly made their visit to us a very busy one. I was so pleased we had all the planning and timetable discussions as the timings were so tight. I hope you liked the meal in the Refectory. I was checking all the positions of the choirs before the Concert thinking you would slip into position around 7.45 pm. I was so surprised when I saw you all appear at 7.25 pm. I thought that was brilliant! I noted one or two cheeky grins as you passed me. I must say it made my job much easier. Thank you for that. What a fantastic representation from the South of England. we have a right to be proud of all that is being achieved. I was very thrilled with the evening. Finally may I thank you for the lovely flowers I received the other day. Kind regards Jacky <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> BIOGRAPHIES FROM MEMBERS OF THE CHOIR > Gina Adams As a trainee with Kentwood Choir, I’ve been asked to write a bit about myself and what it’s like to be a trainee. I’m a relative newcomer to Swindon. I’m from Nottingham originally, but my husband and I moved here in 2003 after living in Colorado, USA, for some years. We had a fabulous time in Colorado, and my work as an ecologist let me spend lots of time in the beautiful mountains. However, we were very ready to come back home. We think Swindon is great and both work in the Research Councils here. I love animals and I love singing and together, they now take up most of my spare time. I have two cats and am a Branch Trustee for the North Wiltshire RSPCA. I’m always singing (although before Kentwood it was mostly in the shower or to my poor cats!). As a teenager (a long time ago) I was a member of the South Nottinghamshire Music School Choir and had a scholarship there. Then adolescent rebellion, university and jobs got in the way and I didn’t join another choir until Kentwood last December. I feel like I’ve found my spiritual home! Sheila selects the most beautiful and uplifting music to sing. The rehearsals are a perfect blend of the hard work needed to get a sense of achievement and the fun that brings Kentwood its sparkle. However, the thought of actually being part of a performance with such an amazing choir scares be to death … so I’m more than happy to be a trainee for a good while longer! BIOGRAPHIES FROM MEMBERS OF THE CHOIR > Susan Ogden I have enjoyed my first year with the Kentwood Choir. As I said to Sheila, I should have been here years ago because I have learned more in this year than I have in 5 years. Some times it is a bit daunting and too fast for me to grasp, but I will not give up. I cannot read music but I am learning more each week. I am a very busy person and try to fit too much into my life. I have five children aged 20-29 and two grandchildren aged 8 months and 4 months, an allotment where I grow my own food, which is a great success but very hard work, a karaoke business which is fun but can be hard work, and my job as most of you know, cooking dinner and baking for the Sisters at Holyrood. This year I have also been teaching myself guitar and keyboard. I shall learn if only to teach my grandchildren. I go away abroad a few times a year to scuba dive which I think is my hobby. I have a large campervan that I go away in at weekends when we don’t have rehearsals. There I get peace and quiet and can catch up on Kentwood music. I would like to thank those who have helped me get through this first year and thank you to Sheila for her hard work. Won’t see you all in September – going to Australia for 5 weeks. BIOGRAPHIES FROM MEMBERS OF THE CHOIR > Penrose Shackel From my school days I have always sung in a choir but, when I moved to Cirencester 11 years ago, the combination of small children and new location meant I did not sing for some time. Sheila Huntley, who works with my husband, suggested that I try the Kentwood and I came along to a couple of Monday night lessons to see if it was for me. After overcoming a small misunderstanding about singing tenor (I had always sung tenor but an octave down) I have happily become a bass. Alison and Sue are a great support to me and I have worked very hard not only to know my lines but also to take on board all that being part of Kentwood means. I work for two companies both of which encompass a lot of driving. Fortunately, I do not car-share as any companions would be suicidal at the repetitiveness with which I play my tapes! Singing is my sanity - it is the thing I do for me. Sometimes it is difficult to allow myself the luxury, but my husband (and occasionally my children) are very supportive. I consider myself very lucky. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> KENTWOOD KIDS SHOW THEY CAN CUT THE MUSTARD Review from the Evening Advertiser - Ros Hollands I certainly don’t have the space to do this review, Sheila Harrod and her Kentwood Kids enough justice for their concert at Swindon Arts Centre. Think of all the superlatives in the dictionary, list them, cut them out, put them in a jar and just keep picking them out until there are none left. That is the Kentwood Kids; the younger members of the main Kentwood Show Choir. I joined the Mayor, Mayoress and a packed audience of friends, family and those who just went along to the second packed show of the day. It would be very unjust to single out any of these tremendously talented young people. Every solo, duet, trio, ensemble or choir piece; from simple show tunes to intricate melodies, beautiful ballads, songs in a foreign tongue, were quite simply perfection, a word I don’t often use. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Sheila has the knack of finding just the right song for any one of the multitude of voices she has trained. I have watched some of these young people grow up and mature into some of the best singers in our town. This was a one day, two show date to raise funds for the Arts Centre. Nothing had been left to chance. Costumes were excellent, lighting subtle and interesting. Sheila played keyboards throughout as well as keeping the singers and band together. She must have been totally exhausted. In the Mayor’s words: “These kids are our future”. Clarry Bean, Artistic Director of the theatre said: “You were fantastic tonight, Thank you”. I couldn’t agree more. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> Editor: Mrs Yvonne Walker, 23 Bourton Avenue, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon SN3 4LY. Telephone: (01793)823849 e-mail: walker365@ntlworld.com |