Choristers up close - Henley Cegielski
Henley Cegielski
Section - Tenor 1
How did you come to join Risca Male Choir?
Following my studies at College (Crosskeys), and before venturing into University, I found myself in need of a hobby.
Over the years I have always kept in a close orbit with the world of music. First, having piano lessons, cornet lessons, and then taking percussion lessons which I pursued further, performing on stage as a member of Markham Brass Band for several years in my early teens: eventually, like most teens playing the drums, I played in a couple of rock bands.
I had never considered myself a singer, but behind closed doors I always enjoyed crooning along to the old standards of the “American Songbook” – of which I remain an avid follower to this day, listening to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Bobby Darin. And so I thought simply – why not learn how to sing? It’s worth a go, what could go wrong!?
I casually mentioned this interest to the family, and it was my sister-in-law’s grandmother who recommended a singing teacher she had worked with previously, and she put me in touch. This man was of course, none other than RMC’s own Martin Hodson MBE.
At my first session, I remember Martin asking me what I enjoyed singing, and whether or not I was a tenor, baritone or a bass… and to be honest, I had no clue. And so it was after singing for Martin for the first time and being vocally reviewed, I was informed that I was in fact a tenor. So 14 years ago I began by vocal journey having regular lessons with Martin at his home, lessons that have continued to this day.
It was at this first lesson Martin asked whether or not I would be interested in joining RMC. Even then I was aware of the excellent reputation RMC held, but I had never listened to the choir before, or really any other male choir.
I came along to a rehearsal night and (as is the custom) sat out in front and listened for the first half. I can’t quite remember what was sung that night, but I remember being very impressed at the sound the guys made and wanted to be a part of it.
In the second half I was asked to join in with the top tenor section. I sat in the front row between Graham Brettell and Gareth Phelps who mentored me, showing me the ropes, helping me navigate the wide repertoire, and assisted me in getting to grips with a multitude of languages. This for me was the first time I had to work in some of these languages.
I thoroughly enjoyed my first experience of a male choir, and so it was I joined the ranks.
How long have you been with our choir, and what are the things which have helped you stay?
I have been with the RMC for almost 14 years starting at the age of 20. I think it’s fair to say I was at that time, the youngest member when I joined, and have remained among the “youngsters” in the ranks (just about).
What I like about RMC is the impressive, and sometimes challenging repertoire we perform.
As I have mentioned, RMC sings in a multitude of languages, and also sings items that are “easy listening,” popular music, to the very contemporary. The choir has been a terrific conduit in introducing me to new music and composers that I would otherwise not have come across. Discovering and performing new music gives joy both on and off the stage.
A few years into my membership, I managed to convince my dad (Kevin) to also join the ranks. And it’s wonderful to share this hobby with my dad and to be able to perform together on stage doing something we both enjoy.
What music do you particularly enjoy singing and why?
I mentioned earlier on that I enjoyed listening to the old crooners, but since I started singing with RMC, and through my studies with Martin, my musical tastes have broadened significantly.
I now enjoy singing all sorts of music from opera, to musical theatre and contemporary pieces, none of which I would have done if I had not joined the RMC and started my musical education with Martin.
I particularly enjoy the RMC annual theme concerts. Personally, I enjoy the Musical Theatre theme show and, as I am also an avid movie buff, the Movies theme show is always a particular highlight for me. There are some truly wonderful pieces written for movies, and it’s always a joy to sing and perform on stage with the guys boasting such good programmes which are always fun to sing and make for enjoyable evenings.
From the Movies theme show, I always enjoy singing the RMC arrangement of Into the West (from the movie Lord of the Rings – Return of the King), it’s such a beautifully written song with lyrics that are very meaningful and carry a lovely sentiment.
Another highlight in the RMC Calendar is the Annual Concert. I remember learning and performing the piece O Welche Lust (The Prisoners’ Chorus) from Beethoven’s opera Fidelio. And more recently, Sure on this Shining Night by American composer, Morten Lauridsen. The piece boasts a wonderful “Golden Section” which is always a joy to sing.
There are many fun numbers in our repertoire, especially within the theme shows I mention above. But I particularly enjoy singing a brilliant arrangement of the old sea shanty, What shall we do with the drunken sailor? It’s a particular favourite, and one which we’ve performed many times at concerts and competitions.
Keeping with the nautical theme, another particular favourite is Bristol Roads written by Welsh composer Mervyn Burtch. We last performed this at the 2015 annual concert shortly following his death. For anyone not familiar with this piece, it’s a wonderfully emotional item about a young Welsh lad who journeys to America to seek a new life away from the valley mines. It was challenging to learn but wonderful to perform.
Have you had any memorable musical moments that gave you pride and satisfaction?
I have been fortunate in my 14 years as member of the RMC to have been involved in many, what I would call memorable moments – and certainly many memorable MUSICAL moments.
In 2010, early in my membership of the choir, we joined forces with Gwent Chorale to perform the Verdi Requiem. This was a rare and exciting opportunity to sing such a fantastic choral work: I hope to be able to take part in a similar venture in the future.
A particular highlight for me was the 2010 tour to Austria & Poland. Here we had the privilege of performing in St Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna (to an audience of 1000!). It’s a truly wonderful cathedral, boasting a massive space with an even more impressive acoustic.
Another highlight of this same tour was being able to sing in the Mariacki Basilica on the Krakow Square, again another impressive building.
On this tour we also visited at the Auschwitz Concentration Camp where we sang Prayer of the Children alongside the execution wall where many were murdered tragically during the Second World War. It was a very moving moment, and something I will remember for the rest of my life.
I have been very privileged, in my time with RMC, to be asked to perform as a soloist. This includes many times at the annual theme shows, and for many other concerts and functions over the years. It was an amazing experience performing as a soloist at the two cathedrals mentioned above.
Another highlight for me was the tour to Germany in 2013, where I was honoured sing Panis Angelicus as a soloist in the Sunday Moring Mass at St Thomas’ Church (Thomaskirche) in Leipzig. This was where Bach had worked for 27 years of his life, and we sang alongside his tomb.
A personal highlight for me was performing Au fond du temple saint, otherwise known as The Pearl Fishers’ Duet from Bizet’s opera, with choir baritone, Andrew Jenkins at the retirement concert of Martin Hodson. Our performance of this item was uploaded to Youtube and has done really well in “views” over the years. It was a significant milestone for me as a singer, and to this day, I still go back and watch the performance. It’s always interesting to look back at previous performances of a younger self, if only to compare and measure progress made in my continued learning with Martin.
Tell us briefly about your life outside of choir.
When I am not singing with RMC, I spend much of my time involved in my work, other musical hobbies and family time. I am an Electrical and Electronic Engineer working for General Dynamics in the Military / Defence sector.
When I am not working, and outside of RMC, my hobbies remain in the world of music and singing.
I mentioned earlier that I came to join RMC through Martin Hodson. With Martin, I have continued regular lessons and we have been working together on many enjoyable ventures over the years.
Together with baritone, Andrew Jenkins, we have worked towards, and delivered several fundraiser concerts called Tenor and Baritone to great success, raising funds for Gwent Chorale, and in more recent years Tenor and Baritone – a walk on the light side raising funds for RMC. It is our hope, as restrictions ease and we move out of the pandemic that we will be able to bring back Tenor and Baritone and perform again together.
Henley and 2 year old Harry: life is fun!
In recent years, I have become involved with the Aberdare society, COLSTARS, a society that my fiancée, Sarah Knight, has been a member for many years. With them I have performed in a number of shows including The Wedding Singer (the stage musical, based on the film of the same name) and All shook up (an Elvis “jukebox” musical). I have also played the Prince (cast alongside my Sarah’s Snow White) in their annual pantomime.
If that isn’t enough to keep me busy, shortly before the first lockdown, we welcomed our son Harry to the world. Harry will be 2 in February 2022 (where does the time go!?)
For those who haven’t met Harry, he’s a happy character, and he certainly has kept us busy through the pandemic.
Harry loves to sing and dance – and he loves to perform: we don’t know who he follows (probably his mother!) Having Harry has absolutely changed our lives and watching him grow is a privilege for sure.
Sarah and I are now looking forward to our wedding in October 2022.
A final thought, if you have one
Joining RMC, and starting my vocal lessons with Martin, has introduced me to music that I would never have even considered before.
I have made some great friendships, gained a new hobby in singing that I thoroughly enjoy, and which I now share with my Dad, and Sarah – and I hope eventually, my son.
Sadly the Pandemic really hit the performing arts sector, and none more so than Welsh Male Choirs. I am looking forward to a time where we will be able to perform once again with RMC.
If you are reading this, and maybe looking for a new hobby but “sat on the fence”, I highly recommend giving RMC a go: you may surprise yourself.
