East Preston choir debuts

Conducted by their leader, Marilyn Dennis and accompanied, on piano by their founder, Brian Timms, the group entertained an audience at St Mary’s Church.

The programme ranged from silver trumpets, via several musicals, to the recent Military Wives’ hit, Wherever You Are.

In a break from the singing, there was a recorder quartet with works from Peter Mac and Tielman Susato, and featuring Brian Crowl and Marilyn with choir members, Pam and Lorna.

A medley from Bernstein’s West Side story concluded the first half.

There was then the original words of show song Cabaret, followed by a re-vamped U3A version by Beryl Coulston from the choir.

Sunrise, Sunset from Fiddler on the Roof calmed the mood prior to a solo intrusion from the church cleaning lady – the group’s own Lesley Smith in disguise.

Three Latin American songs, arranged by Brian, gave the audience an opportunity to show their skills with percussion instruments.

Jasmin Goddard, accompanied herself on guitar in a folksy ballad.

The final medley of songs from My Fair Lady included a solo from Ange Rawlings and then Mary Sayers who could have danced all night.

The show was held last month.