It has to be admitted at once that a mutual admiration society exists between Nanette and the choir, but that is how it should be. Both are wonderful institutions and well worth preservation and admiration!
Nanette gave the blessings and prayers. The audience were able to give voice at the start and mid point with communal hymns.
It is easy to overlook what a difference a polished presentation makes to a concert. Phil Lloyd is an expert exponent in the field. He has an empathy with most audiences that is the envy of many. A deceptively relaxed and urbane delivery always puts the audience at ease. They are then willing, but compliant targets for a little gentle humour at their expense. It is a measure of his skill and popularity that the joshing is welcome light relief and always taken as part of the fun of the evening. He has a gift not in the possession of many others who attempt similar.
The choir was led as usual by Chris Lloyd, more and more compelling as a leader driven to encourage the very best from her charges, and succeeding handsomely, if audience reaction was any guide.
The concert was attended by choir president, Phil Thompson, and wife Chris, and were joined by technical manager from Chevron, Mr. Ed Wagner with wife Carol. The choir gathered this was their first introduction to Welsh Male Voice culture and they are led to believe that it will not be their last!
Mrs. Wagner was observed as being animated and enthralled by the whole experience and was at pains to say so after the concert. Three American- based items were sung in their honour and seemed much appreciated.
Chevron are wonderful supporters of community activities in and around the Pembroke district and the choir were very pleased to be able to give something back that appeared to give the guests so much pleasure.
Henry Johnston, in fine voice, Sam Thomas and Allyson Griffiths, played their parts to the full with their solo pieces. Allyson finishing with a delightful item, 'The Berceus' from Faure's Dolly Suite Opus 56, that some years ago the choir believes was used to introduce Woman's Hour. This was recognised immediately and brought back to the audience some fond, nostalgic memories of a bygone era.
Joan Lewis excelled as usual with a Lloyd Weber item 'I don't know how to love him,' but following this item brought the house down when she sharing a duet with Chris Lloyd to sing 'Jerusalem.' The sustained and appreciative applause was long, loud, and well earned.
The choir finished the evening performance in fine style with 'Rachie' and sent the audience homeward in high spirits from the result of a fine concert. The choir were left to deal manfully with a wonderful spread of food prepared by the ladies' committee.