Stephen Gunter
Section - Tenor 1

How did you come to join Risca Male Choir?

I have always had a love for music, and am one of those random folks that like to sing along to the radio in the car, who people often stare at when sat at the traffic lights waiting for them to change. I had never previously considered joining a choir and thought it best to leave that to the professionals after my brief stint in the school choir back in the late 70s. However, back in the Autumn of 2011 Mike Sullivan, from the choir, did a super sales job on me when I bought some tickets for the Risca Male Choir Christmas concert. At that point I didn’t even know Risca had a choir but it sounded a nice night out. So with that in mind I went to the concert with no real expectations but came away afterwards really surprised with both the variety of the music being sung, but most importantly, how brilliant the choir sounded. In the following weeks I spoke to Mike again to say how much I had enjoyed the concert and he suggested I might like to consider joining the choir and invited me to come along and listen to them practice. The rest is now history, and like many of the choristers who have previously shared their stories on this Blog, my only regret is not having joined sooner.

How long have you been with our choir, and what are the things which have helped you stay?

I have just celebrated my 10 year anniversary, if my maths is correct. When I first joined I was mentored by Graham Brettell who together with John Hughes & Gareth Phelps helped me enormously. I really appreciated their support, kindness and patience.

When trying to sum up what has kept me engaged over the years, there are many reasons such as the camaraderie and the diversity of the music that we sing which I think sets our choir apart from many others. It’s also the experiences and special moments we’ve shared together such as singing at the Millennium Stadium on International Day, and in fantastic cathedrals such as St David’s in Pembrokeshire, and Thomaskirche in Leipzig. There is so much more to belonging to a choir than just singing.

What music do you particularly enjoy singing and why?

Not to sound like a broken record, but my very favourite piece of music is Bach’s Bist du bei mir arranged by our own fabulous Martin. Other pieces I love include Cantique de Jean Racine (Fauré).There is something about both the arrangements that grabs at your heart strings, and are both very special pieces, so please check them out if you have the opportunity.

Have you had any memorable musical moments that gave you pride and satisfaction?

Shortly after joining, I went on my very first overseas tour with the choir to Leipzig where I had the opportunity to sing in some fabulous venues. This was an unforgettable experience and one I fondly remember. I have also enjoyed the various weddings that we’ve been privileged to sing at over the years which always brings a tear to my eye. I am an old softy at heart, but don’t tell the wife.  

Tell us briefly about your life outside of choir.

I am happily married with 1 daughter and live in Rogerstone. My work history has comprised working in Finance for many years, and yes, it was probably me that helped support the economic recession in the 80s when I started to underwrite loans! Then for the last 21 years I have worked in the Telecoms industry and am currently involved in project management. Outside of work my main hobbies involve of course the choir, reading and travel. Like everyone I look forward again to when I can next jump on a plane and go somewhere hot.

A final thought, if you have one.

Over the last 12 months if I’ve learnt anything, it’s that life is too short. We should reflect on what we should be grateful for, make the most of every moment, and try new things. Why not consider joining our choir. We would love to see you and can guarantee that you’ll receive a warm welcome, and it could change your life