The music performed by the Griffon Choir at St. Johns Church, Tenby, on Thursday, May 31, obviously lifted the spirits of the congregation who had endured the very disappointing cold and wet holiday weather. Much appreciation and enjoyment was obvious after hearing the items presented. The Rev. Nanette Lewis Head warmly welcomed everyone, and under the direction of Dr. John Harrison and accompanists Judy McGilloway and Andrew Cusworth, the choir delivered the first item, the moving hymn 'Tydi a Rhoddaist', and followed this with excerpts from the 'Requiem by Fauré', baritone solo sung by Lyn Childs. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of the English composer, Edward Elgar, Dr. Harrison performed the very well known, serene and calming 'Nimrod' and later in the programme another Elgar composition 'Pomp and Circumstance No 4', both very much enjoyed and appreciated by all. The choir then presented further items, lightening the mood somewhat, with variety and styles, 'As long as I have music', a choral setting of 'Elizabethan Serenade' by Ronald Binge, 'Where the gentle Avon flows', a beautiful song 'Hafan Gobaith' (Another Day) made famous by Bryn Terfel, and a rhythmic foot-tapping spiritual, 'Ride the Chariot'. This put the audience in a suitable energetic mood to join with the choir and sing 'Love Divine'. They then continued to enjoy more choir items, 'You'll Never Walk Alone', the classic Welsh love song 'Myfanwy' and the deeply moving hymn 'How Great Thou Art'. A beautiful anthem by John Rutter followed, 'The Lord Bless you keep you'. John always engages with the audience in his interesting and informative introductions to each item, and so invited them to participate in the next item 'Siyahamba' and play the role of 'rhythm section' as the choir sang. This was great fun and enjoyed by all. As their finale and to send their listeners out into the cold night air with warm hearts, the choir sang the very moving and much-loved hymn 'How Great Thou Art'. The choir will be performing next at St. Mary's Church, Tenby, on Tuesday, July 15, together with the church's Hand Bell Ringers as a conclusion to their 'Summer Season', so why not go alon and enjoy a very special concert, the proceeds of which will be donated to the Tenovus Cancer Charity Association.
