THIS is what some of our singers have to say about being a member of The City Of Bath Male Choir…
Steve Harmer Joined the Choir in August 2007:
"I joined the BMC having not sung (apart from in the shower) for ten years since my first daughter, Amy, was born. Prior to that I had sung with the Bath Light Operatic Group (BLOG) and further back I was a chorister at Weston All Saints, Bath. The BMC has given me a renewed passion for music and singing, and I love the perfect mix of fun and teamwork which the choir offers."
Peter Bailey says:
“I joined the choir officially in November 07 after the annual concert but had been attending rehearsals since July 07. Simon Kale in the (top tenors) has been a friend since we met in New Zealand in 1995, he mentioned the choir when I told him that I play drums and sing in a band. I was hooked from the moment I heard the choir at rehearsal. I have been involved with music all my life but had never sung in a choir before and was pleased I could remember how to follow sheet music. Grenville manages to maintain a relaxed and friendly environment while still getting the best from everyone in the choir. I've met some interesting and varied characters in the choir and enjoy the social aspects of the group as well as the music. It's one of the most enjoyable things I've ever done.”
Paul Stansall is a top tenor and says:
“I wandered into Beechen Cliff one balmy August eve to mellifluous tones, chaps smiling faces and a welcome I couldn't believe. "You're the sort of a fella that looks like a tenor" smiled Grenville, which came as relief.
Now each week I rehearse with our group in the church with a joy whose cup overflows. So I couldn't go back to a life without song for I'd miss all the guys in those rows.”
Nigel Hamilton joined the choir in June 2007 and says:
“Having not sung in a choir for 17 years. "It was great to sing with others again, but this choir has something rather special! The boys are very encouraging; it is fine to 'have a go' as the culture is so supportive. The range of music we sing was a real draw to me in addition to the expert tuition we receive from Grenville.”
Simon Kale says:
“I attended the 2nd rehearsal of the choir back in January 2006. I didn’t have a musical background and was without any previous singing experience, but was delighted to have an opportunity to be involved in making music. For me, learning music and singing in the choir has been a new and hugely enjoyable challenge, and something completely different to anything I have done before. It enables me to switch off from my busy working life as a landscape architect, make new friends and feel part of a wonderful supportive community. I also love the opportunities we have had to perform in Bath and elsewhere, hopefully for the enjoyment of our audiences!
Keith Mabe said:
“I joined the Choir in May 2007 after watching spellbound the Showcase performance that month. I really enjoy the challenge of learning new pieces of music and the ultimate joy of performing that work in concert or in the pub! But above all else the sense of togetherness, camaraderie and fun is very special.
Dick Bateman, says:
"I joined the choir at its second rehearsal and I love it. Grenville is a superb rehearsal leader, and combines the pursuit of excellence with tremendous fun. We all think the repertoire is great and I personally look forward to singing some more English music. It has given me another strand to my life to juggle with rugby commentating, playing football and rock and roll guitar."
Mubi Mwiya joined the choir in May 2007:
"I was involved with a choir for years back home in Zambia and have been wanting to join a choir since I arrived in the UK 3 years ago . The first day I went along to the Bath Male Choir, I had intended to just go along and listen but Grenville insisted I join the singing straight away. From the start, I was impressed with the sound and felt it was the right choir for me. Thanks to Grenville and my fellow bass singers in particular for making me feel so welcome."
Ray Brigden joined the choir in May 2006:
"I enjoy all types of music particularly live performances. I was concerned about joining the choir because I cannot read music. This has however not been a major problem and rehearsal nights are now a highlight of the week when I can sing to my hearts content amongst new friends”
Vere Collins says:
"When I first read of the proposal to form a Male Choir, I was immediately interested. Having played and studied music over many years I didn't regard myself as a singer, but, I thought, why not? So I was happy to join what has proved to be a fine group of singers. My part is small but, I trust, contributing usefully to this worthwhile venture."
Steve West, joined the choir in March 2007:
"I had sung a little before in a small men’s chorus in Bath. I really enjoyed the experience but as the numbers were so small if people didn’t turn up it was difficult for members to keep motivated and it fizzled out. Since joining this choir i have only missed one week when i was on holiday. i love the variety of music we are singing and its great so many people turn up each week. They come from a variety of backgrounds but we all have one thing in common we love singing and we always seem to end up having a laugh. Other members have been very supportive and have helped me to have more understanding of reading the music as I don’t sight-read. I can make out a lot more of what’s going on now which helps, I hope anyway!! Anyone who is considering joining us, just do it you wont be disappointed."
Kevin Bridges says:
"I've known Grenville and his sons Dan and Loz for over 25 years. As a child I was always bursting into song. Dan suggested joining the choir, and its been brilliant. I'm a Solicitor in London and Bristol, but live just outside of Bath. Singing is a great way to unwind at the end of a busy day. If your looking for an interest that's fun, challenging, rewarding and social, you've found it. Join our choir."
Andrew Gordon joined the choir at the end of November 2008. He says:
“It is an invigorating, enjoyable, sociable experience and I am looking forward to my first major concert with the choir on Saturday.”
Malcolm Sutton joined BMC in September 2008. He says:
"I joined the choir following a recruitment drive to increase the numbers of the choir. This was very much influenced by Last Choir Standing."
Federico Firino joined in November 2008:
I travel every week from Salisbury to Bath and absolutely love it. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly. I had never sung professionally or had any lessons i just have a great passion for singing and for music. I look forward to joining the group in performing to an audience in the near future.