Come and Sing Brahms Requiem

On Saturday, May 17th 2008, a group of around 120 singers gathered in the Baptist Church to work on the Brahms German Requiem. Around a third of those were members of Choir 2000 but the other two-thirds came from near and far having heard about the event through our publicity and/or mailing lists.

On arrival singers were greeted by our many helpers who registered, provided music, sold tickets for a hog roast lunch and made cups of juice, tea and coffee. At 10am the singing began. Our conductor was Grayston Burgess, making a return visit to the Choir after his retirement as its full time conductor last year. Choir 2000's current conductor, Peter Britton, formed half of the 'orchestra' with Tim Williams. They were playing 4 hands on one piano which provided an excellent accompaniment to the piece. (Brahms originally wrote the Work for two pianos, though these days it's usually performed in an orchestrated form - and Choir 2000 may try that - and in German! - in a couple of years).

Grayston Burgess

The orchestra: Peter Britton (L), Tim Williams (R)

The Requiem contains some wonderful melodies, and some tricky choruses. Luckily a fair number of those present had performed the work before which helped those of us who were less familiar with the piece. Grayston took us through most of the choruses in the morning, with extra attention to some sections, producing at times some very musical moments.

The morning session ran from 10 to 12.30,at which point some participants reached for their sandwiches whilst others walked down the road to the Red Lion and to an excellent Hog Roast lunch. It was spitting with rain but we managed to find seats in the pub, and have a good natter. In the afternoon session we were joined by Richard and Abi Hooper, our Baritone and Soprano soloists. We worked on the remaining choruses - and particularly on those involving the soloists - until a 4pm tea break.

Soloists Richard and Abi Hooper with Grayston Burgess.

At 4.30 we mustered our final energy for a 'performance' of the whole Requiem, with a small but appreciative audience in the back of the church. Many parts went well and were certainly sung with enthusiasm. Some sections would have been better with more rehearsal but that is always the lottery of these occasions. What was certainly true was that we exercised our vocal chords, enjoyed a day out with like minded singers, met new people and enjoyed yet again the unique style of Grayston's leadership.

Sopranos

Altos

Tenors

Basses

The event was organised by Choir2000 .

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