What a venue; what a host & what a fantastic sound News

It was fabulous to have BBC South Today Presenter Anjana Gadgil as our host, and great to be joined by local dignitaries the Test Valley Mayor, Councillor Karen Hamilton, Romsey Town Mayor Councillor John Parker as well as RMVC’s very own regular supporter Romsey MP Caroline Nokes, recently appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department of Work & Pensions . In speaking of Caroline’s new role compere Terry Morrision raised a laugh when he couldn’t resist quipping ‘never mind the work we’re more interested in the pensions!’

Seriously though what a wonderful rollercoaster evening of music with RMVC singing songs in Welsh, Maori and Italian as well as English and guest performers Romsey Ladies Choir and local soprano Annie Tatnall adding yet more variety in their performances. Topping and tailing the event Anjana Gadgil thanked RMVC for a warm welcome and “A night of wonderful music in a very special venue; it was a real privilege to be able to attend.”

RMVC’s programme was notable for the Choir performing several pieces to be sung again in October at the London Welsh Festival of Male Voice Choirs in the Royal Albert Hall. The Choir also revived old favourites from Les Miserables, and gave another emotional rendering of Bui Doi from Miss Saigon. Songs from the shows featured as well in the repertoire of Romsey Ladies Choir’s together with a specially composed Gaelic Blessing by Kate Jackson.  Making the most of the wonderful acoustics in the  Abbey, so perfectly suited to a soprano voice, Annie Tatnall delighted the audience with her five pieces ending in a beautiful performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s Poor Wandering One. The evening culminated in a joint finale and a rousing rendition of the popular Rodgers and Hammerstein song You’ll Never Walk Alone.

The audience was lively and appreciative and perhaps more importantly helped us raise a goodly sum towards Abbey Funds. However, you’ll have to watch this space to discover exactly what was raised when we present a cheque to the Reverend Cannon Tim Sledge later in the month.

Our thanks on this occasion go to Anjana (do hope we see you again after your move to Hampshire); to RMVC member Mike Bull for his hard work in taking the lead on organising the concert; obviously to our guest performers – thanks ladies – and to our own WAGs or Green Sashes, always in evidence and supportive. Finally we are grateful to the Abbey and Abbey staff for their help.