New members welcome at male voice choir

And to ensure the choir thrive for another 93 the group are on the hunt for new members.

From different backgrounds and all walks of life, the men unite every Thursday evening at the Church of the Resurrection, near Berkeley Circle.

President, Paul Taylor said: “I remember feeling apprehensive when I was asked to join, I arrived for a rehearsal and almost turned around and walked away. But I did it and it has been absolutely fantastic, and that was 50 years ago.

“This choir has been my life, I have been widowed twice and it has kept me going.”

Mr Taylor is not alone in finding camaraderie, solace and sheer enjoyment within the choir’s fold – indeed for some it has been life-changing.

Keith Ellis, a member of 26 years, said: “I have never looked back after first joining, and we just need to encourage a few more people to come and dip their toe in the water, that is what I did and it has been wonderful.”

While for Gordon Slack, of Luddington, the group has reined in his former singing career, which consisted of rather vocal performances on the back seat of a rugby coach.

“I used to play rugby union and my singing at that point was rather raucous and usually on the way home.”

Gordon is now a member of three different choirs.

With a whole mix of personalities and styles, you would think it may be difficult for the present conductor, Daniel Fields, 26, to keep his choir in check – but not at all, says the teacher at St Bede’s Catholic Academy.

“They are a very friendly bunch to work with, a very open and welcoming choir,” says Daniel, who is also on hand to advise the latest recruit – 25-year-old pianist and accompanist, James Longden.

The accomplished music teacher looks forward to his choir evenings and encourages other younger musicians to join.

He added “There is a real social aspect here as well as the music, they are a very friendly bunch and those who come along always enjoy themselves.”

For more information on the choir and details on how to join visit www.scunthorpemalevoicechoir.com or call 01469 530103.