Accompanist analysed - Alison Thomas
Accompanist analysed
Accompanist
Alison with husband, Geraint
How did you come to join Risca Male Choir?
I spoke to the conductor at a concert where I was conducting my school choir. It came up in discussion that I played piano and he said they were looking for an accompanist and asked me to come along for a rehearsal. I’ve been there ever since!
How long have you been with our choir, and what are the things which have helped you stay?
It's now been 5 years since I joined. I just loved the friendly, family atmosphere and always say it’s like having a room full of granddads! (Apologies to those not granddad age yet!) Of course, the chocolates left on the piano at the start of every rehearsal helps! Thanks - you know who you are!
What music do you particularly enjoy singing and why?
I enjoy most pieces but love accompanying Nella Fantasia and Gwinllan a Roddwyd the most. There are certainly a few I prefer not to play as I have very small hands and some composers don’t take that into account!
Have you had any memorable musical moments in the short time that you’ve been with us?
I always find concerts memorable for different reasons. Sometimes it’s because I’ve forgotten to transpose the keyboard back down or up and made the choir sing a whole piece in the wrong key! Sorry! Sometimes because we’ve played outside and it’s been so cold my hands were numb by the end of it! I feel sad because I missed out on some truly memorable experiences such as singing for members of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir or the recent flash-mob at the ICC.
Alison with daughter, Ffion
Tell us briefly about your life outside of choir
As a busy school teacher I don’t get much free time that isn't taken up with marking! We enjoy walking our mad dog up the mountain, stealing weekends down our caravan in Pembrokeshire and keeping my hand in playing percussion for Tylerstown Brass Band. I’m looking forward to exploring beautiful Cambridge more when visiting our daughter at University.
Alison with Roo
A final thought, if you have one
When I first joined, I told committee I would see what it was like to have to fit in two rehearsals a week. I never looked back! It’s always fun, although a little challenging at times, but I don’t know what I would do without them. Love you all, gents!
