The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Angus military wives from Condor join forces with others from across UK for new charity album.
Music: Condor, Leuchars and Rosyth members included, with CD out on June 29
Military wives choirs from all over Britain – including Angus and Fife – joined forces to create a charity CD.
A total of 1,105 singers from 69 choirs, including 93 singers from overseas choirs, recorded parts for an album which commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the conclusion of the First World War.
Choir members from Condor, Leuchars and Rosyth joined other choirs from Scotland, the north of England and Northern Ireland at a recording session at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh in January. It was one of seven such sessions across the UK.
Diane Breach from the Condor Military Wives Choir said: “Our session had more than 100 people singing. It was a fantastic experience, getting together with all the other women. The acoustics were lovely in the Usher Hall.
“There was a workshop on the Saturday and then the recording was on Sunday.
“At times
Itwasan emotional day but a satisfying day and it was amazing to be part ofit. DONNA HUTCHINSON
it was quite emotional, especially when we were recording We Will Remember Them, and listening to it being played back to everyone.”
The 12-track album, Remember, is due to be released on June 29.
It includes a new composition by award-winning composer Owain Park called the Poppy Red, based on the 1918 poem We Shall Keep The Faith.
It is the fourth album created by the Military Wives Choir, a registered charity working in conjunction with SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity.
Donna Hutchinson of Leuchars Military Wives Choir said: “The album will be released to coincide with Armed Forces Day. I can’t wait to hear the finished result.
“It was great to hear all these ladies from all over Scotland, the north of England and Northern Ireland coming together to sing these songs.
“It was an emotional day but a satisfying day and it was amazing to be part of it.”
Music for the album centres on five original songs by top composers from the worlds of classical, pop and film music.
The album also includes music from past and present, referencing upbeat First World War marching songs, iconic regimental and service marches, contemplative remembrance pieces and contemporary songs.
The Band of the Household Cavalry and the Royal Marines Corps of Drums also feature on the album.
rmclaren@thecourier.co.uk