Choir News

New Carol for Tommies; Evensong; Music for Youth

Sir Thomas Rich’s School has a long history of Choral music. The Choir aims to provide pupils with a progressive and broad musical experience, underpinned by our heritage and traditions. We perform a wide range of repertoire, ranging from traditional choral anthems, hymns and carols to SATB arrangements of jazz standards and pop songs.

A key strength of the choir is its inclusive nature; members range from pupils with a love of singing through to members of the Gloucester Cathedral Youth Choir and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. Many members are also keen sportsmen, regularly dividing their time between training and choir practice. Rehearsals are sometimes led by the Choir Captain and other sixth formers, who take the younger boys under their wings, creating a real family atmosphere.

New Carol for Tommies

I am delighted that the choir has welcomed back old Richian Alan Viner, performing his ‘Come to Bethlehem’ at our carol services in December. Alan opened a ‘Carol for Tommies’ competition, inviting boys to write text for a brand new carol to be composed for Rich’s. Applicants ranged from year 7 pupils through to year 13. Nathanael Kane 12R was announced the winner by Alan last week as he joined us in rehearsal. Alan was impressed by the depth of perception displayed by Nathanael in his text. I was really excited when Alan played the first few sketches of his composition to us after announcing Nathanael had won.

Evensong

On Thursday March 2, the choir joined the Cathedral Youth Choir for Evensong at Gloucester Cathedral under the direction of Adrian Partington. It was a real privilege to sit in the wonderful Quire of the cathedral and listen to the beautiful tone of the combined choirs. The service included: Responses: Clucas; Psalm: 23 Charles Hylton Stewart; Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis: Ives in D; Anthem: Lord for thy tender mercy’s sake, Hilton. The service was particularly poignant as we prayed for the health of Alex Bayliss 13S.

Music for Youth

The choir completed their busy week on Saturday March 4 performing at Music for Youth at Cheltenham Town Hall. I am particularly grateful to several parents who organised delivery of boys from sports fixtures. The Music for Youth Mentors were impressed by our performance of Bohemian Rhapsody featuring Louis Horrell 13T on piano. They particularly liked the blend of sound, accurate intonation, and contrasts in the performance. The bass section were complemented on their contribution to the sound and Louis Horrell was also praised for his accompanying. I was especially proud when the choir were praised for their professional on stage.

It is a privilege to work with the choir. Thank you and congratulations to you all.

Pauline Jones