Yes, we’ve been doing it again. We’ve been singing in the
bath. We’ve now performed at this beautiful old building half a dozen or so
times. We always sing in one of the old pools. They are fortunately devoid of
water but full of good acoustics. What shall we do if they ever put the water
back?
The Victoria Baths is another place worthy of a visit for the
Manchester tourist. It was opened in 1906 and is still splendid with its many period
decorative features:- stained glass, terracotta tiles and mosaic floors. It is currently
undergoing extensive restoration and each time we visit we see small
improvements. There was a little sun yesterday and it brought out the best in
the leaded windows and skylights.
About two thirds of our members were there yesterday and we had
a good balance of the four parts. We aired some current repertoire and again started
with Dance in the Street. That worked
so well in this space. Nellie the
Elephant was trundled out. That’s usually popular with the little ones
though the adults seemed to enjoy it this time too. We performed The Long and Winding Road for the first
time in public. It’s a lovely song, anyway, and this particular arrangement suits
our voices. Gwen Sangster took the solo parts in Longer. We also resurrected an old
favourite – Joshua – the one where we
do the scary eyes.
We did two slots and it was good in the break to look at some
of the exhibits. This included the information about the restoration of the Gaskell House, another brave project and we hope that once it’s finished we may get to
sing there also.
We almost lost our musical director, Jeff Borradaile, though.
He’d managed to get locked into our practice room where he’d taken a nap. Jeff
was completely unfazed, of course. We just thought we might have to sing in the
corridor. However, someone came with a key.
Sampling the cake was also an activity during the break. Cake
is always important to the Ordsall Acappella Singers and the Victoria Baths’
ones are to be recommended, as is their tomato and basil soup.
Thanks to the Victoria Baths for having us and to their lovely
visitors who were so appreciative.
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