By IW Observer.co.uk
Ryde Chorus celebrated its 30th anniversary with a party at Northcourt Manor, Shorwell, last Friday (June 10).
Among those attending were present members along with several past members who were involved in the choir in its early days.
The proceedings started with a sing song, when the choir, for its own enjoyment, sang many favourite songs from its repertoire built up over 30 years. Part two of the party was speeches from chairman, Jon Baker, and current musical director of 20 years, Philip Fryer, with Philip cutting the anniversary cake.
The choir was started in 1992 by Mark Coote of Ryde School and, although he could not be present, he sent a box full of memorabilia from the early days. Writing to the choir he said that he was ‘amazed and rather humbled’ the group he started was having its 30th anniversary.
Islander, James Longford, now a world-famous pianist, told of his time as a rehearsal accompanist when he was a boy at Ryde School. Without the generous support of James’s parents, the choir may never have got off the ground.
Also present was Richard Hutchins, who took over as musical director from Mark. Richard is now in charge of the Bembridge Singers.
The choir’s celebration closes next Friday, June 24, with a concert at St Peter’s Church, Shorwell, when the choir will take the audience on a tour of Britain in folk song. Tickets available from ticketsource.co.uk.
Isle of Wight Observer