The choir sings in Southwark

OCTOBER 29: The choir enjoyed a splendid outing to Southwark on Saturday, when it mixed a one-hour performance at Southwark Cathedral with informal sings before and after the main event.

The choir began by singing to the shoppers and tourists thronging Borough Market, captivating groups of one hundred or more with a selection from its après repertoire, including Saints and You’ll Never Walk Alone.  The appreciative proprietor of an upscale seafood stall presented a choir member with three lush oysters, which were soon consumed by members of the bass section.

Banners and choir give it large in Borough Market

Next came the appearance at Southwark cathedral, with fifteen songs performed in three sets.  The warmest applause from the packed audience appeared to go to Jacob’s Ladder, You Were Always on my Mind and the Dona Nobis round.   The choir was applauded loudly again as it made its departure down the centre of the nave.

The choir then repaired to the river bank where it sang further numbers from its après songbook, all appreciated by the lunchtime diners and drinkers and further groups of passers-by.

Starstruck crowd at Borough Market 

The Southwark appearance marks the latest stage in the choir’s progression around the cathedrals of England, where the list already includes Canterbury, Coventry, Norwich (two), and Gloucester.   Next up will be Peterborough, as part of the choir’s forthcoming annual tour in May 2020.