On song since 1974 and they still sound wonderful
Dalgarno Singers celebrate 50 years with anniversary concert in Dumfries
SHARON LIPTROTT
1974 was a big year: the general election ended with a hung parliament, Scotland were undefeated at the World Cup (even if they did get knocked out at the group stages) and the Dalgarno Singers performed for the first time.
Fast forward through 50 years of performances, social events and companionship, and the Thornhill based choir is preparing for its anniversary concert at St John’s Church in Dumfries tomorrow.
Under the guidance of music director Rory Robson – and with Hilary Craig at the piano and Gordon Pursel on the organ – they will perform Mozart’s Requiem in D K626, and Feel The Spirit by John Rutter.
Soloists are soprano Lorna Murray; mezzo soprano Holly Jarvis; tenor David Walsh; and bass Peter Sanders.
It has been a trip down memory lane for the choir – which was formed in 1974, meeting in Morag and Ian Brown’s house in Thornhill – as founding member, Rena Pelling, has been back rehearsing with current members in Keir Village Hall.
The group’s name comes from the old settlement, Dalgarno or Dalgarnock, near where Thornhill now stands, and it was named by Rena.
They usually perform three concerts during their season, which stretches from September to May and they are always well supported by an appreciative audience.
The choir sing a mixture of traditional songs including folk tunes such as those of Burns, as well as classical choral works – typically Haydn, Handel, Mozart, Rutter and Schubert– and show tunes from the likes of My Fair Lady and Les Miserables.
They are also known for their work in the community, visiting Briery Park Care Home to perform a selection of Christmas carols and festive music for residents and staff.
One of their most famous sons is Dumfriesshire opera singer Nicky Spence who was awarded an OBE in the King’s first Birthday Honours List for services to music last year.
The Thornhill tenor and former Wallace Hall Academy pupil said he started his serious singing life with the Dalgarno Singers as an early teen.
He has gone on to become a much-loved classical singing sensation with a career that has taken him around the world.
He has also helped raise thousands of pounds for charities helping struggling musicians.
One of the highlights of the choir’s decades together was a performance on ITV’s hit programme Highway, presented by Sir Harry Secombe at Drumlanrigg Castle and Country Estate. It can be enjoyed on YouTube at www.youtube. com/watch?v=OqS0IPLn52k.
Tickets for tomorrow’s spring concert are available, priced £15 adults and free to children and students, from the Midsteeple Box Office in Dumfries at 01387 253383, or members including Hilary Gunn at 01387 710445 and Elaine Kirkham at 01848 332303.