Saturday, September 28, 2024

£1,500 Raised for Local Charities.

There is something special for me about Church acoustics and just maybe I was influenced at an early age as my Grandfather was a vicar. And yes also I’m biased, as St Mary’s church holds many special memories for me growing up in Usk. But it’s also where I made my male choir debut some 3 years ago - cast then into the role of novice baritone and last minute compere as the Mayor went down with COVID!  I don’t recommend such combined roles by the way!

In between booking and the actual event, RMC kindly won the National Eisteddfod - a brilliant achievement of course, and a rather good marketing angle for me as organiser!  Then I joined RMC (thanks Matt!), having explored two other choirs - all of which became rather surreal in hearing discussions and plans for the event, with most of the choir not knowing muggins here was amongst the ranks!

Now, I was never (quite rightly!) going to make it onto the slightly cramped stage that evening alongside 36 other fellow choristers, but it was though the opportunity, and the first time for 3 years, to be part of an audience again, and indeed, listening to some pieces of music I’d never heard before.

Nervous? You bet! Usk is renowned for “last minute dot.com” for event ticket sales, but I had passed the goals set before a wonderful sunny day saw another 42 punters walk in on the night. Happy days! No one likes to see an empty church, let alone a choir sing to one man and the Vicar, so to speak.

So here I go again.  Wow!  Just wow! A beautiful evening of music and community spirit absolute unfolded at St. Mary’s Church in Usk, as the National Eisteddfod Champions (I think I gave this strap line a few mentions  - PR is my game folks) -  absolutely captivated an audience in a very special and unique charity concert. It was held in support of the Mayor of Usk’s chosen charities, and the event raised nearly £1,500, bringing together, it’s fair to say, music lovers and generous donors in a heartfelt effort to support local causes, from the Forest of Dean to Brecon and Risca Alickadoos (A non-playing rugby/choir aficionado). Male choir members from “rivals” Pendyrus, Monmouth, Chepstow and Caldicot, noticeably purred on exit!

So, in 2 halves, 4 sections of 3 pieces, saw stirring harmonies and rich, powerful voices, delivering an unforgettable performance that left the audience in awe. And me too - honest! A brilliant choice of repertoire, ranging from traditional powerful Welsh songs to more contemporary pieces, resonated throughout the historic church, creating a magical atmosphere.  I did record only one piece on my iphone (Fix you! by Cold Play) and managed to shut up too, so as to not add a 5th solo section harmony to the sound track!

Adding to the evening’s musical diversity, of course, was the “singing (now retired) plumber” Chris Moreton and his wife Wendy. Their talents on guitar, banjo, double bass, harmonica, THAT drum/symbol thing! and vocals provided a perfect complement to the choir’s choral masterpieces. The duo’s folk-infused set was a delightful addition, adding warmth, mad cap humour and variety to the evening’s programme.

But of course, the evening wasn’t just about music—it was about making a difference in the community. The funds raised at the event will be donated to a number of local charities and organisations close to the hearts of Usk residents, chosen by the Mayor of Usk. The beneficiaries include:

• The Ted Senior Foundation – Supporting mental health awareness and suicide prevention for young people.

• Ty Hafan – A children’s hospice providing care for children with life-limiting conditions, and their families.

• Usk Brass Band – A beloved community musical group that has been part of Usk’s cultural fabric for generations.

• Usk Cricket Club – Supporting sports development for all ages in Usk.

• Usk Primary School Gardens – Enhancing the school environment and outdoor learning spaces for young students.

• Usk Pump Track – Promoting fitness and outdoor activities through a dedicated track for cyclists and skaters.

• Usk Rugby Club – Encouraging rugby development for youth and adults in the town.

• Usk Young Farmers – A group providing social and skill-building opportunities for the next generation of Usk’s agricultural community.

Ok for me, the event was a true testament to the power of music and Usk community spirit. Mayor’s charities like these are essential in nurturing both the wellbeing and cultural vibrancy of Usk. Through events like the concert at St. Mary’s, residents not only enjoyed an evening of exceptional performances, but also contributed to lasting positive change in their town. Usk is building a reputation as the Town of Choirs.

The Mayor of Usk expressed gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the concert, highlighting how important it is to keep supporting local charities and community projects. The concert also demonstrated the enduring appeal of live music in bringing people together and fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

With nearly £1,500 raised, the event was a great success, and the funds will go a long way in supporting these vital causes. As the applause echoed through the church at the end of the night, it was clear that both the performers and the audience had created something truly special, one note at a time.

This inspiring evening at St. Mary’s Church was not only a celebration of music but also a reminder of the power of community, generosity, and shared purpose. Here’s to many more such events that bring people together for the greater good!

Tony Kear: Baritone