A light almost-summer
evening at the end of an unpredictable bank holiday Sunday. St Ninnian’s Church
is half full already and they keep on coming. Chorlton Arts and probably our
own Facebook page have done us proud. By the time we’ve finished our warm-up we
have a more than respectable audience. Late-comers have to sneak in the side
entrances to the pews.
“We have other appearances
coming up. Twice at the Victoria Baths. 6 June and 7 September,” Jeff tells the
audience during a break between songs.
“We’re from there!”
cry a group of folk half way back on our right. Indeed they are. We recognise
our old friends from that lovely building, though today they’re not wearing
tier name badges.
And of course, we
mustn’t forget Buxton. 25 July. Details here. We normally have a great day. Why
not come and join us?
We work through
our repertoire and bring out in public for the first time Bring Him Home and Viva la
Musica! All goes well. Singing in churches seems to suit us and naturally
we include Deep River, Joshua and Kum Bah Yah.
An interval gives us
a chance to mingle with our audience over tea and biscuits. Tea, cake and
biscuits are a hallmark of the Ordsall A Cappella Singers and tonight is not different.
We do recognise some family and friends. As well, though, there are some
mystery guests. What motivated them to come, we wonder. Will they come again?
We hope so.
There is cake,
too, backstage, kindly donated to the choir. Thank you so much. You have the measure
of us!
Thanks to St
Ninnian’s, Chorlton Arts festival, and all choir members for a great evening.
By 9.30 we are all gathered in St Clements Church Ordsall and Salford Quays. We’re in our home parish and in the place from where we get
our name. It’s raining gently outside and it’s cold for May. Yet, as we’re
reminded later, “It’s a glorious day, despite the weather.” 