Nine singers met in a quiet "Chichester Inn" for the first session of this new year. Having not met in December there was some catching up to do - including further discussion about preparation of a programme to offer to the Chichester Fringe in 2027.
Stephen A reminded us of the research he has done about the traditional songs collected in the late 1800s and early 1900s from the Chithurst area, by song collector Dorothy Mitchell and others, (Henny noted that, by coincidence, the EDFSS had recently aired an online talk about Dorothy Marshall's life and interest in traditional songs, dances and customs.). There was agreement that we try and learn a selection of these songs, initially at the Chichester sessions with a programme for the Fringe in mind - but to be shared with other Singers in our other groups in due course.
To warm up our voices, and cut through any mid-winter gloom, we sang "Summer is A'Commin' in Again" - before turning to the words Stephen A had supplied for the "The Young Recruit" and the simple notes for the tune he had recorded on his phone. After a few faltering attempts we began to pick it up - not flawless but a good start. Discussion of other "Chithurst Songs" reminded us of ones already known to the SDFSS but rarely used, that could be revived - including "The Stedham Oyster Man" (not sung at this session) and "Valiants All" which we did then manage to sing through.
With plans for more songs and work on these ahead at future sessions - the rest of this evening was used for requests and a few wassail songs. So "Song of the Sussex Downsman"; "On Sussex Hills" and "Where Stormy Winds do Blow" - then "Silver Wassail"; "Here We Come A'Wassailing" and the "Jacobstowe Wassail" were enjoyed, interspersed with more chat and top-up refreshments.
In addition, those who knew it were reminded of and sang a song celebrating the tradition of "Pace Egging" - shame it's origins are not in the South Downs (but it would be great if we could 'adopt' it!) A very sociable and productive evening came to a suitable close with the "Parting Song" - and thanks to Stephen A and Alan for their able facilitation.
No comments:
Post a Comment