Choir returns to stage 

AUGUST 25: The choir staged a triumphant return to live performances with an appearance at the Oval Tavern, East Croydon, on Sunday that wowed the audience and delighted choir members, who were thrilled to be back singing together in public at last. 

CMVC wows Oval audience (photo Leni Gillman)

Almost 40 choir members took part, singing from the choir's old and new repertoire, including several pieces that had been learned during online lockdown rehearsals.  Choir apres supremo Dave "Banners" Bannister conducted, doing so with his customary verve and entertaining both choir and audience with his banter and repartee.

Four recruits who had joined the choir during lockdown took part: Steve Scott, Matthew Smith, Gary Stuart-Martin and Barry Farrant. All acquitted themselves with honour.

Banners conducts (and sings) with customary verve (photo Leni Gillman)

The Oval appearance followed the choir's recent return to live rehearsals.  These are being held at St John's church in Shirley Church Road, where it is considered easier to observe Covid precautions than at the choir's usual base at Sandilands Sports Club, Addiscombe.

The choir is working on plans for a return to full live concerts, with one date already scheduled, at St Francis, West Wickham, on October 9.  It remains to be seen what the "new normal" looks like, but the choir has already made an exciting return to public performance and is looking ahead with relish and confidence. 

Appreciative Oval audience (photo JWT)