GLORIANA CHOIR

A Concert for Charles Edmondson RIP

This was a most delightful afternoon, presented by the Gloriana Choir (a group which was organised by Charles in 2005) under the leadership of Jane Thedham, and comprised choral pieces selected originally by Charles to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the dedication of the two-manual pipe organ in St. Paul’s –  plus a couple of surprise items.

The 16 choristers performed magnificently, their repertoire ranging from Baroque  anthems through more modern composers (Sir Charles Villiers Stanford, Sir John Rutter) to pieces from stage and screen (The Vicar of Dibley and Moon River).  Andy Plowman accompanied on piano and organ, and also gave two solo pieces on the organ – a delicate work by Percy Whitlock.

The finale was a roof-lifting (I glanced up apprehensively) rendering of the Gloria from a Mass composed by Charles some years ago.  This was a brilliant work and made us realise – alas, perhaps too tardily – just what a magnificent musician Charles was.  The word Handelesque sprang to mind as organ and voices rang out together in a rousing, magnificent crescendo.

Our thanks go to our talented performers, to Eileen and members of Charles’s family who joined us, to Jane for her skills, and to our catering ladies whose scones, jam and tea rounded off a most agreeable and uplifting afternoon.