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The Wivenhoe Encyclopedia |
| 6th April, 2003 A Concert in St Mary's Church
on Saturday evening, 5th April, attracted over 100 people all of whom were impressed with the range and
quality of the talent exhibited by the people who took part in the
Concert.
Aptly entitled Gift of Voices, an audience heard a diverse range of voices, from Betty Spall's wonderful reading of 19th century Essex poetry in a broad local accent to much-appreciated Alex Baker's rich baritone singing of English ballads.
Firm favourite Joan Gifford entertained everyone with her folk guitar and songs. People are bound to remember her story of the Wivenhoe Ladies Magical for a long time. So too, will Brian Ford's tale of the Wivenhoe Whaling Company's exploits, so successful were they in whaling activities, whales are extinct now the River Colne! And of course, an upper-middle class version of 'Great Balls of Fire' must be worthy of repetition at frequent intervals. In Accord, led by Hilary Cook, a group of unaccompanied singers produced a beautiful sound to introduce the Concert. John Pantry, performing on piano and singing two songs was a joy to listen to as were duet Ian Dewis and Chris Rose with songs Forty Second Street, Spread a Little Happiness and If I ruled the World. The voices of Natasha Shipp, singing two opera pieces and Katy Osborne, singing a couple of songs from musicals, made for a wonderful evening, full of contrasts, well-balanced and leaving an audience full-appreciative of the Gift of Voices. The Concert raised £500 towards the running costs of the church building. |
At first fearful of what Audrey ll were going to produce with three
guitarists, a full drum-kit, and lead singer, the audience were treated to
two songs written by this very-talented band, fresh from recently winning
the Colchester heat of the national Battle of the Bands competition.