Tuesday, 17 July 2024
Tuesday was a day that I suspect for many of us in the choir will remain in our hearts and minds for a good long time. A day that is hard to put into words. We were privileged to sing for the installation of the Mayor of Gloucester, which was held in the context of Evensong. This occasion brought out much English pomp and circumstance, as well as mayors from many surrounding towns dressed in their ceremonial finery. The choir’s repertoire for the day, by chance, fit quite nicely into the occasion, featuring canticles by nearby resident Joanna Forbes LE’strange, and an anthem (They that go down to the sea) by former Gloucester organist, the great Herbert Sumsion. It was very special to sing Sumsion’s anthem in the place it was written. The choir sang beautifully and did a tremendous job. Our boy choristers even sang the opening lines of the Nunc Dimittis by themselves and did a great job. My heart is over-flowing with gratitude.
The Mayor of Gloucester is a warm and friendly lady who was very complimentary and appreciative that we could sing for her installation. I had the privilege of speaking with her at Tea after the service in which she thanked the choir profusely and wanted us to know that the music had transported her and that she would carry this gift with her for the rest of her life. Her words were a great reminder why music is important in our lives. For its ability to intercede and bring glimpses of God’s beauty to us - a beauty that will change our lives and change the world for the better.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Ben Keseley, Minister of Music
And, the Album Cover of the Day
The Choristers forthcoming album
“Crabby Road”
**They really aren’t crabby, though, but rather delightful. :)