A review of a recent Wiveliscombe Community Choir event. Photograph by David Bond.

SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2011

The Wiveliscombe Community Choir has a reputation locally for the warmth, power and precision of its singing. Since its formation in 2009 it has grown in numbers, stature and skill. The choir, in co-ordinated black attire with hand-made silver and gold accessories, made a stunning picture against the starry backdrop in Silver Street Chapel.

The Boar's Head Carol (accompanied by the parading of a 'singing' boar's head) delighted us all. Two locally collected West Gallery carols 'See the Angelic Host' and 'Follow the Star' were sung with gusto, as was "While Shepherds watch" to the tune of Ilckley Moor.

Newer carols included the delightful 'This One Star', sung with careful attention to colour and texture and a beautifully sustained final note in "Carol of the Star". A charming flute solo from Nick Thomas also featured in this carol.

The now traditional appearance of lowly shepherds and multitudes of halo-ed angels didn't disappoint us. As a beautifully attired and bewigged angel (bearing a striking resemblance to a well-known local church warden) appeared, they sang "Angel Bright" to much laughter and applause.

"Galaxy", a medley of non-seasonal star songs, began with the men sporting cowboy hats singing "I was born under a wandrin' star" and finished with the whole choir singing "Telstar" with optional kazoos!

Altogether this was another accomplished performance from Wiveliscombe Community Choir under the direction of Claire Wren. The range of personalities and their obvious enjoyment in singing together, makes for a rewarding experience for the audience. A.C.