The normally quiet village of Jameston thrilled to sounds of music on Bank Holiday Monday. By 9.30 am, they started to arrive, they being young people of the area looking to be 'famous' for just one night only. They included the shy, the not so shy and one little guy who was out to make a big impression - he brought along his bongo-drum. These youngsters, together with two or three more senior types - had gathered to take part in music workshops in the Mission Room, Jameston - which in recent months is beginning to 'live' again. Chairman, Peter Cooper, welcomed the 'newcomers' and introduced them to the three tutors for the day, Laura, Sarah-Jane and Jo (who make up the band, 'The Evil Sweeties'), all graduates of Newcastle University, renown-ed for its folk and traditional music. All day, the tutors and the 'wannabes' worked on their ensemble. Oh, what a wonderful time they all had. The beginnings were - well, a tad painful. It could only get better - and the pain turned to bliss. At around five o'clock, the Mission Room fell silent, resting. But not for long. As the hands of the clock on the wall crept their way towards 7 pm, the workshop students returned - but this time they led - like modern-day Pied Pipers - parents, family, friends and others, who had come to see, to listen and to enjoy the Rhapsodies of Jameston at the Grand Evening Concert. The MC reappeared, explaining to the auditorium the preparations throughout the day. And then, baton raised, the orchestral extravaganza began. The earlier fears of students forgotten, the group were putting it all together in earnest style. Instrumentals, singing voices, a little classical, a little light, trad and folksy. It was a celebration. The enthralled audience responded with cheers and clapping - and the players showed all the panache of 'The Famous'. The interval provided refreshment - and Jameston's Mr. Music-Man, Fred Thomas (85) played his accordion throughout the break. Part two saw the tutors, Laura, Sarah-Jane and Jo, mesmerise the audience with a number of magical pieces for instrument and voice. They in particular had had a long day - it was time for bed. This had been a Jameston Community Association production at its very best. Bravo!
