We usually shiver a little at the Victoria Baths . Not so yesterday, one of the hottest days of the year. Moving and singing actually felt a little cooler than just standing still.
Because of threatened road closures I personally allowed an extra forty-five minutes for my journey and bizarrely arrived forty-five minutes early even though I was stuck for a while in traffic. This had two great bonuses though; I was able to enjoy a cup of Earl Grey and a slice of their lemon drizzle cake and I was able to listen to the choir that performed before we did: the She Choir. They are an interesting group so do have a look at their web site. By one of those bizarre coincidences that occur more often than you’d credit I was actually at a meeting on Friday in the space where they rehearse.
Certainly the tea shop in Victoria Baths is to be recommended as is the bath itself as a place to sing; it was a joy to listen to them. This place really brings the music to life. The sound expands and echoes around the whole space.
It was soon our turn. The rehearsal space this time was the laundry.
“You’re not expecting us to do the laundry are you?” asked one of our altos. “We have enough of that to do at home.”
No, we needn’t have worried. No washing or ironing expected. Tough a little tucked out of the way it was a pleasant space, quite cool and with a nice high ceiling.
Then we were on and were soon singing to an appreciative audience. We have to take a little care with the echo; it’s tempting to slow down and listen to it. We were particularly pleased that one of our newer songs went well.
We were part of the Pools of Creativity event that took place over the weekend. The artist Akinyemi Oludele was present at the event and indeed spent some time sketching us. He is Manchester based and has been involved in producing art for over twenty years. Indeed he often uses music and politics to inspire his work. He likes to draw what is in front of him. We were in front to of him.
We always enjoy singing
in this iconic space and hope to do so again soon. Yesterday was no exception.
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