A Concert by the Chiltern West Gallery Quire
Sunday, 13th October 2024, 2.30pm
At Ardeley Church
Places must be booked in advance, but pay on the day
I know the leader of this Quire (yes, Quire, not Choir) and some of its members. Having attended a number, their concerts are always very enjoyable. Therefore do come; you may not want to miss this special event I’ve been involved in arranging.
From 1700 to around 1850 the music played in the Courts and Cathedrals of England was reserved for the rich and prosperous. However, small towns and villages all over England enjoyed a huge variety of lively and popular tunes, created with pride and care by members of each small community. The music in this concert at Ardeley would have been heard in and around Hertfordshire, accompanying many everyday tasks and pastimes. The term ‘west gallery’ derives from the wooden galleries which in the 18th century were constructed at the west end of typical churches, and from which the choir would perform.
This concert will be followed by tea and cake and finish at around 4.30. The choir, dressed in keeping with times past, and playing a variety of instruments, will sing a representative selection of hymns and songs. And throughout, Jenny, the leader, will tell us about such choirs, the music they played, the songs they sang, some of the instruments used, and the people, mostly men but some women, who composed the music and in some cases wrote the words.
The central pews of the lovely Ardeley church will accommodate only so many people, so you must book your place in advance with me by email operagroup@lalg.org.uk or phone, 01438 241043. The cost is £10 (including the tea and cake) per person, payable at the door on the day. Although the choir will be reimbursed for some items of cost, all the remaining money will be donated to the church. Do book your place as promptly as you can. Of course, should you later find you are unable to attend, do let me know as there may be a waiting list.
Practical points The church is south of Cottered on the A507, or north east of Stevenage, the postcode for the church being SG2 7AJ, but do contact me should you require further guidance. There is a small length of roadside parking opposite the gate to the church, but the church will be arranging a car parking area, details of which I shall notify to all who book a place to attend the concert. Toilet facilities will be available in the village hall opposite the church.
Do contact me should you require further information, but I look forward to receiving your booking for what should be a most enjoyable occasion.
John
See Group Contact.