The last event of the Pewsey Carnival year saw a compendium of local musical talents - headlined by Kennet Vale Brass conducted by Mark Harvey – treat a near-capacity Bouverie Hall to a fittingly rousing finale. In support were the Pewsey Male Choir directed by Nel Frank and accompanied by Kim Bott, and the choristers of St.John the Baptist, Pewsey led by Cheryl Underhill. Front of house and interval refreshments were organised by the Zixex Club.
KVB entertained and impressed throughout five sets that ranged from film scores through Glen Miller and the Beatles to the contemporary African notes of Abdullah Ibrahim. Their closing numbers to each half of the programme will live long in the memory – firstly, a spirited rendition of Zorba’s Dance which had the audience dancing in the aisles and a final John Lennon tribute medley performed in full Sergeant Pepper regalia to reprise their excellent float from this year’s procession (pictured above).
The variety offered by each choir in their respective performances was no less impressive – the church choir ranged from traditional hymns based on themes from Sibelius and Pachelbel to Zimbabwean folk song, while the male voice choir sang arrangements of familiar popular songs and closed with their public debut performance of the evocative negro spiritual Steal Away.
As stated in the closing remarks, it was gratifying that monies had been raised towards carnival charities but equally important to know that a Hall full of people had thoroughly enjoyed themselves in the process!
Interested in Joining?
Be assured that each of the groups involved would have a warm welcome should you wish to become involved in their activities and apart from the musical range the performers’ ages are also widely spread - from nine to ninety (… almost!).
Why not attend a rehearsal and see how you like it?
Kennet Vale Brass – follow this link to their website for further info.
Pewsey Male Choir – rehearsals Mondays at 8.00pm, Royal Oak
St.John the Baptist Choir - contact Cheryl Underhill, 562584
