The Station Singers on Song, raising over £1600 for two local charities.
The 2017 Christmas Concert with Candlelight was a resounding success. Led by musical director, Carol Gedye, assistant Kay Bromhead and accompanist Brett Overin, the three community choirs joined to provide a joyous evening of Christmas music. The music ranged from Christmas favourites, through new interpretations of familiar carols to complex pieces in close harmony.
Adolphe Adam's "O holy night" sung by nearly 120 voices let the audience know what a powerful treat was in store for them. Platform 1entertained with a jazzy setting of "Away in a manger" by Herbert Chappell. Platform 2 sang an exquisite new setting of "In the bleak midwinter" by Becky McGlade followed by "Behold that star" by Bob Chilcott, both with great expression. Branch Line had two beautifully performed winter songs for us "Something told the wild geese" by Andy Beck and "In the face of a child" by John Larsson.
The Station Singers worked with two local charities this year: YMCA Richmond and The Jonas Centre, Redmire. Annette Clark (YMCA) told the audience of the charity's vital support for vulnerable young people in the Richmond area and of its many successes as a result of community support. Simon Eastwood (The Jonas Centre) explained how the centre in Wensleydale provides holiday accommodation for families and individuals in need of support due to illness, bereavement or long-term difficulties. As the audience joined in the singing of 'Good King Wenceslas' and 'Away in a Manger' the carols' words seemed to reflect the charities' work.
Mayor Stuart Parsons, accompanied by Lynne Glover, drew the raffle for three lucky prize winners. The winning hampers were provided by the two charities, choir members and Fairtrade, Richmond.
After the concert, the choirs, invited guests and audience enjoyed Christmas refreshments together in St Mary's Church. The sense of a community in harmony was clear.
