Christmas Concert 2016

Friday 23rd December, 2016 - 9:46am

Christmas has a special place in the heart of Mousehole. The famed harbour lights, visited by thousands, complete the festive scene around the picturesque fishing village. They were switched off on Dec. 19th to mark the 35th anniversary of the tragic loss of the Penlee lifeboat.

Then on Wednesday (21st) came the annual Christmas concert by the Mousehole Male Voice Choir at the ancient Paul Parish Church, conducted by Musical Director Steven Lawry and his assistant David Williams. The accompanists were Annette Turton with Rebecca Mayall. The two combined for a brilliant four-handed accompaniment for the ‘Sussex Carol’. Two choir members, Nigel Williams and David Ceredig-Evans were the organists.

There was a capacity audience with all programmes sold a week in advance of the event. Everyone knew they were in for a Yuletide treat with a cornucopia of carols-and expectations were fulfilled.

There was a strong charity appeal as the concert was in aid of the new Solomon Browne Hall in the village and the Children’s Hosplce South West, with Tamsin Harvey and Eddie Farwell expressing their gratitude. The Choir sang at the Hospice’s 25th Anniversary celebrations in Exeter Cathedral this year, at which the Patron, the Duchess of Cornwall, was present.

Melodies old and new, local and international arrangements were sung splendidly by the almost 80-strong choir and the congregation had their chance to join in with Cornish traditional favourites.

‘Bethel Shepherds’, ‘The Yearning’ and ‘Mary, Did You Know?’ were a particularly fresh delight, with Merritt’s ‘Lo He Comes...’ and ‘Star of Bethlehem’ giving full scope for the choir’s interpretation and strength.

Readers were Peter Robinson, Charles Parke and brothers Colin and Steven Lawry

Two singers who have built up a great reputation for their sweet harmony and style, twins Jenna and Morwenna Matthews, were the guest artistes and captivated the audience with their presentation of ‘Oh Holy Night’ and ‘Silent Night’ as well as a Christmas Medley, accompanied by their mother, Kath.

Both choir and twins had their new CDs on sale. Thanks were expressed by Choir Chairman, Charles Law. Presentations were made by Secretary Tim James and there was a welcome and final blessing, in which the absent John Harry, in hospital, was remembered by the vicar, Rev. Andrew Yates.