Intergenerational Rabbie Burns inspired afternoon
Campbeltown seniors were treated to a Scottish-themed afternoon of entertainment from performers of all ages last Friday.
The well-attended event was organised by 1000 Voices, which exists to counter social isolation and to improve the health and well-being of older adults and to connect people within the community, in partnership with the U3A choir and pupils from Campbeltown Grammar School (CGS).
Appropriately for a Burns commemoration, Ross Connor piped in the event, getting everyone in the mood for the Scottish celebration in the Lorne and Lowland Church Hall.
The U3A choir, under the direction of Margaret Nimmo and accompanied by David Gardiner, had the audience toe-tapping and singing along to A Highland Lad, Ye Banks and Braes, and Comin’ Thro’ the Rye.
Solo part
A hush then fell as everyone listened to the clear, sweet voice of Erin Soudan singing the solo part in the CGS choir’s rendition of Ca the Yowes, followed by Flow Gently Sweet Afton.
The audience was then heard to softly sing along once more as the U3A choir sang the familiar words of the Skye Boat Song, Charlie is my Darling and Blow the Wind Southerly.
The girls from CGS then introduced the seniors to 21st century Scottish music, singing Lewis Capaldi’s hit song, Grace.
After a break for tea, coffee, shortbread and a time to chat, the second half began with the U3A choir performing The De’il’s Awa wi the Exciseman, Fear A Bhata and Westering Home.
Erin Soudan sang Iona Boat Song, with delightful clarity, and impeccable articulation, followed by Amy Ross and Iona Renton’s harmonious duet of the much-loved song Loch Lomond, watched proudly by their mothers who quietly mouthed the words as their daughters sang. Iona then continued with a strong, melodic solo performance of Aye Walkin’.
The U3A choir sang Eriskay Love Lilt and a very brisk Dashing White Sergeant, punctuated by a stirring bold recitation of Scots Wha Hae, spoken by Janette Dreghorn.
As the event drew almost to a close the conductor, Margaret, encouraged everyone to sing Auld Lang Syne led by the combined choirs.
Michele Prout from 1000 Voices thanked Margaret Nimmo, the U3A choir, CGS teacher Katy Cameron and the CGS choir, Kim Fletcher and the CGS pupils who assisted with refreshments, and everyone who had come along, for their support.
Cathy Duncan replied with thanks to Michele for organising the enjoyable event and loud applause indicated the audience’s agreement. But the event was not over yet.
Ross Connor took to the stage to close the proceedings as he had begun them, with lively, toe-tapping piping medleys and the tunes of familiar Scottish songs. His eyes twinkled as the audience started to heartily sing Campbeltown Loch after he had played only a few notes, and the young accomplished piper beamed a wide smile as he finished playing.
Young voices
At the end of the concert Cathy Duncan said: ‘That was a lovely way to spend a Friday afternoon. The entertainment was beautiful.’ She continued. ‘The mix of music was great too, and it was lovely to hear the young voices along with the more mature choir.’
The U3A choir accompanist, David Gardiner added: ‘I love the enthusiasm of the choir. They are so keen, and they so obviously enjoy singing.’
Margaret Nimmo, who trains the all-female U3A choir, said: ‘This choir is good on so may levels. It fosters friendships, is good exercise, combats loneliness, and we all love singing.’
She added: ‘We meet to practise on alternate Tuesdays from 2pm to 3pm in Lorne and Lowland session room and new members are welcome. Just call me on 01586 820099.’
1000 Voices also welcomes new participants. Michele can be contacted on 01586 554744 or micheleprout@ argylltsi.org.uk.