We gradually assembled 31 singers for our session at the Barn, which started early to accommodate the necessary proceedings of the SDFS’ Annual General Meeting (the first since 2019 and the Covid gap). Officers' reports were given, committee elections held (unfortunately without confirmation of a new Chairperson), and generous words were expressed to the outgoing Chair' ( gratefully received and much appreciated by H.)
Some general discussion followed from comments and queries made about our public events, the introduction of new material for our performances, and the ongoing problem of managing the limited time available at our monthly sessions. Suggestion was again made that we arrange occasional extra sessions or workshops to learn new songs, develop harmonies, and for special event rehearsals. (We have two such sessions already booked to prepare for our Yuletide events - in addition to enjoying our seasonal songs at the SDFS local sessions in the next few months.) All ideas and suggestions shared at the AGM will be considered with our leads and singers at our local groups (and with our Events Man, John, who was unable to attend this meeting) - and opportunities will be explored to take them forward if we can.
Once the time allotted for the AGM had run over, and out, we took a breather to quench thirsts and rearrange tables and chairs - for our singing to commence. Emily was unable to join us this evening but Alan generously offered to step up and lead, which he did with his usual positive and energetic approach - many thanks Alan!
We set off with “Ale Glorious Ale”, "Farmer’s Toast” and "Brisk Young Plough Boy”. A solo from Alan followed, with some support from a few singers familiar with the song, “Love and the Ball” (about stool ball) to revive it in a Worthing session (it's probably better known in our Lewes and Chichester groups). We all came together again to sing “The Oak Tree”, the "Lammas Carol” (at the briskish pace preferred by its creator Alan), and then, maybe a little prematurely, “The Parting Song”. By request and in tune with Alan’s suggestions, “All Among the Barley” and “The Turtle Dove” were enjoyed and preceded another welcome solo from him, "Three Drunken Maidens”. The latter was remembered by some from its first airing at a Worthing session in 2019 (pre-Covid) and enjoyed by all, and positive feedback suggested it would be a lively one to add to our performance repertoire.
We continued with “Oak, Ash and Thorn”, “The Constant Lovers" and "One for the Rook”, before Alan sang for us the story of “Bold Reynard”. The mood involved by its sad ending may have prompted the last request of the evening, “Ladies Go Dancing at Whitsun” which brought a busy evening to a gentle close. Thanks again to Alan and everyone who stayed the course - and hope we’ll see you for our next full evening of songs at the Barn on November 2nd.
H.
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