OLDHAM Parish Church was filled with festive cheer and an appreciative audience for the Carol Concert by Oldham Choral Society and Ashton Band.
Nigel Wilkinson directed the choir of about eighty singers accompanied by Angela Lloyd Mostyn on keyboard. Their guests were Ashton Band directed by Philip Chalk.
The concert on December 20 got off to a rousing start with everyone singing ‘O come all ye faithful’ accompanied by the band.
Then the format was two items from the choir followed by two from the band then a carol for everyone to sing. This pattern was followed three times, concluding with ‘Hark the herald Angels Sing’.
The choir were in good voice and their a cappella rendering of ‘Hail Smiling Morn’ and ‘Ding Dong merrily on high’ were particularly enjoyable.
Other outstanding performances were ‘Away in a Manger’ with Rachel Dine playing a beautiful Flugelhorn solo and ‘Walking in the Air’ when the band played with great sensitivity.
After the concert many of the guests enjoyed a drink and mince pie with members of the choir.
There was a retiring collection for Real Change Oldham, an organisation which supports local people who are homeless. The money raised was over £500.
Oldham Choral Society’s next concert ‘Italian Jewels’ will take place in the Stoller Hall on Sunday, May 10 at 7pm.
They will be performing Rossini’s Petite Messe Solonelle and Messa di Gloria by Puccini. Ticket details available closer to the time.
Find out more about Oldham Choral Society on their website: www.oldhamchoral.org.uk