Christmas Cracker at St. Faith's Church, Havant
Very ably directed by Guest Conductor James Bowen Thomas, the choir led a near capacity audience in traditional carols on December 11, one of which, While Shepherds Watched their Flocks by Night, was cheekily set to the tune of a well-known Ilkley Moor ditty, and choir member Colin Rampton gave us three lovely light-hearted readings between a fine selection of the choir’s favourite repertoire, most of which is arranged for SMVC by their Musical Director R Huw Thomas.
Wrapping Paper Blues by Ben Parry is a case in point – a rap (of course) about opening the presents under the Christmas tree after lunch, resulting in a mixture of disappointment and delight and an inevitable rising tide of paper all around.
But the undoubted star of the evening was David Bowen Thomas, international bari-tenor opera singer who presented four seasonal songs that filled the church with a magnificent sound from the powerful to the subtle in true classical style: a rare treat, very much appreciated by the enthusiastic audience as well as the choir.
So, a little Christmas celebration, like all tantalisingly wrapped gifts, filled with surprises – and this time, just what we always wanted!
I see from the SMVC website that the choir began over 60 years ago, formed by a group of singing postmen – and it occurred to me that perhaps they were originally called Solent Mail Voice Choir?
Anyway, do have a look at their excellent site: https://www.solentmalevoicechoir.org/ - it might inspire you to join or support – or book them for an event. They simply love to sing!