WHAT a privilege it was to be invited to such a special occasion. The foyer was buzzing when we arrived, filled with family, friends and followers of this most popular choir.

The auditorium was packed with a glossy programme on each seat and we waited with anticipation until the choir in their light blue blazers each sporting either a red or a white buttonhole filed on to the stage eliciting a welcome round of applause from the eager audience.

Their amazing musical director Louse Langley is a delight to behold, her sheer musicality and enthusiasm spills over into everything she does. Thelma King is their accompanist. Not an easy task but she performs it beautifully.

Our compere Norman Donkin ensured that everything ran smoothly, offering us interesting pieces of information and amusing anecdotes keeping the audience entertained throughout.

And the choir, those magnificent men gave their all. The programme was as always varied offering something for everyone, from a rousing Roman war song to open then a lilting love song, The Wind Beneath my Wings followed which is always a favourite, and the Jolson medley had everyone’s feet tapping. The Orpheus choir together with their sponsors promote the Festival of Young Musicians and we were treated to some of the brilliant winners.

Charlie Reston offered an accomplished performance of classical guitar entitled ‘Fandanguillo, Annie Parker delighted with her interpretation of ‘Le chat et la souris, on the piano telling the story of the cat and the mouse in music.

Scarlet O’Shea was breathtaking on the violin accompanied by Rebecca Holt and The RGS Trad Jazz Band was tremendous. I must especially compliment their drummer, I review many musicals through the year and several of the drummers could learn a great deal from this young man.

After the interval the choir offered a lively performance with Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat. We were treated to the Award Presentations and Bursaries which is always a popular part of the programme and it is amazing that the standard of performers seems to rise every year.

I want to specially mention the choir’s rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody a very difficult piece performed with flair and ease, accompanied with dazzling style by student accompanist Leo Munby he was amazing.

The audience were invited to join in singing Amazing Grace which they did with gusto and a Spiritual ended the evening. Everyone went home with an song in their hearts feeling most fortunate that they had been able to attend such a superb evening.