A storming spring concert

April 21: In an exuberant spring concert, the choir renewed its partnership with the Swift Singers, a women’s choir from South Woodham Ferrers in Essex, to deliver storming performances to a packed audience at Shirley Methodist Church on Saturday.

CMVC and Swfits combine at spring concert (Photos: Phil Talmage)

Each choir delivered two sets of five songs before combining for a triumphant finale of the Dona Nobis Pacem canon, followed by a mix of Ave Maria and I Believe. 

The concert was also held in honour of the patrons who do so much to support the choir and fund its singing and charitable activities.

L to R, Swifts pianist Derrick Thompson, MD Tim Rhys-Morgan, CMVC Music Director Matthew Quinn.  

Standout performances by the Swift ladies, conducted by choir music director Tim Rhys-Morgan, included Let the River Run and Bohemian Rhapsody.

For CMVC, they included a rapturous Steal Away and a riotous Jolly Roger, where music director Matthew Quinn did his utmost to keep the choir in check as they donned pirate hats and brandished cutlasses. There was also a sensational piano solo by Sam Prouse in the choir's Finlandia.

Afterwards, as is traditional, the two choirs retired to Sandilands for further singing and refreshment.   For the Swift Singers, Jean Chasmer thanked CMVC for hosting the event.  “It has been a wonderful evening and we look forward to your return visit to Essex in two years time.”

Veteran choir lensman Phil Talmage was in attendance and took a set of top-flight photos. 

Swifts in full flight mode