‘Five Villages Male Voice Choir’

Last summer it was suggested that a male voice choir, made up of singers from the five villages of the Benefice that is made up of the Claybrookes, Ullesthorpe, Frolesworth & Wibtoft should be formed.

The choir is now well established, with up to thirteen gentlemen of various ages and voices turning out for regular practices and we are looking back on a very interesting first year singing at both Christmas and Easter services plus a special event at Rogation for promoting the supply of tools and farm equipment to the Third World. The Choir also sang at a superb cheese & wine evening which took place in a huge marquee in the middle of a field and has brought the Hippopotamus Song to whole new generation in St Peter’s churchyard !

This is a special achievement at a time when many choirs are closing through a lack of support and, in particular, groups that highlight the unique sound of the male voice, in harmony or unison, are becoming increasingly rare.

The Five Villages group is lucky enough to have several younger singers who are learning a whole new way of making music with the traditional tenors and basses. The choir is working on a wide range of music, both ancient and modern, that can be sung in church - together with some more contemporary and humorous pieces, that are great fun and can enjoyed at more general villages events.

The choir barbeque at the end of June marked a celebration of the end of our first season and gave us all a chance to meet with friends and family.

We are all very much looking forward to singing at two Harvest Festivals and joining the Hermitage Ensemble from St Petersburg, when they visit Claybrooke on 18^th September 2004.

We welcome any gentlemen who are interested in singing - whatever their vocal range or previous experience. Do come along and see if singing with this informal, but enthusiastic group, is something you would enjoy. Call Helen Watson on 01455/209033 or email: helencw162@aol.com for further details.