Phil Sheppard
Section - Baritone

How did you come to join Risca Male Choir?

I was asked by baritone chorister, Keith Davies to come along to a rehearsal after he had heard me singing! He thought that I might fit in well with the choir.

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

I joined RMC in 2010. I met baritone chorister, Mike Sullivan on that first night as he was also there with the intent to join. I very much enjoy singing, especially in such company. It’s been a great way to make new friends, and that’s what is so special about being a part of this choir.

I find the atmosphere when singing to an audience gives me a feeling of pride, great joy and satisfaction.  

What music do you particularly enjoy singing and why?

Being a child of the 60s, I have always enjoyed modern popular music. But my father bought me my first two records, both featuring the American tenor, Mario Lanza. I still have them today! Like so many other people, listening to that unique voice gave me an interest in classical, and in particular, operatic music which I enjoy to this day.

That operatic connection meant that I was really thrilled to be singing in our performance of Verdi’s Requiem in 2010, joining forces with Crosskeys College Choral Society at the Risca Leisure Centre, it was a unique moment for us all.

Other pieces that I’ve enjoyed learning include Prayer of the Children, and ones that we’re currently learning, Anfonaf Angel, Gwinllan y roddwyd, and the spiritual Didn’t my Lord Deliver Daniel arranged by our Music Director, Tomos.   

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

I must mention one time I had that feeling outside of the choir, and it was when I sang at my daughter’s wedding in 2005. I sang If I had my life to live over, by Bob Eberly. It brought a roaring round of cheers and applause along with a few tears!

My choir experiences have given me much pride and enjoyment over the years. There are so many that I could name, but one immediately comes to mind, and that was our singing of Prayer of the children at Auschwitz. On that same tour we sang at St Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, and the Mariacki Basilica in Krakow, both outstanding memories for me.

Tell us briefly about your life outside of choir

I started my life in Rogertsone. I was educated at Bassaleg Infant School, followed by Pontywaun Grammar School. I left school in 1961 to follow a motor mechanic apprenticeship. I completed this and worked for several years in a Bassaleg garage.

It was when I was working at the garage that I met and married a local girl, Cherryle. We moved to Rhiwderin when I started working in Alcan Aluminium Works. I remained there for 30 years and then took an early retirement.

We have two daughters and two granddaughters. I’m a “big softy” for all my girls.

In my leisure time, I enjoy playing golf. I enjoy the exercise and the company, along with social activities. I’m an avid reader, something I’ve enjoyed all my life. I especially relish historical nonfiction books.

I played sports throughout the years: football, rugby, cricket, darts and snooker. I was a county long jump champion for schools and a 100 yards AAA representative. I had a football trial for Newport County, but they declared I was "vertically challenged!”.

A final thought, if you have one

One of the best things I’ve ever done in my life was to join Risca Male Choir, and I hope to continue being an active member for a long time to come.