Frome Voices faced a huge challenge recently when they were forced to cancel a much-anticipated joint concert with German singers from Frome’s twin town, Murrhardt.
With roads made impassable by snow and ice, many of the soloists, orchestra (some of them from London, Wales and Surrey) and choir members could not safely make it to Frome. With heavy hearts the organisers decided they had no option but to cancel the planned performance of Brahms’ ‘German Requiem’ at the Cheese and Grain, disappointing not only the performers but also an audience of over 250 people.
It was particularly devastating to the group of 13 German singers who had travelled from Frome’s twin town of Murrhardt especially to sing in the concert. However after an emergency meeting early on the Sunday morning, a plan was devised.
The Frome Voices team approached Christ Church, to see if it would be possible to hold an informal ‘sing-through’ of the beautiful Requiem. The church generously agreed. The word went out and that afternoon all singers who could do so, pulled on their boots and made their way through the snow to the church. They were invited to bring family and friends along too.
The choir lacked an orchestra, but Liz Kozlowski, the choir’s accompanist agreed to play the piano. Gareth Burgess and Steph-anie Collishaw stepped in at a few hours notice to sing the solos and the choir (and a few extras) gathered to sing under the direction of its conductor, Alan Burgess.
Everyone rallied round. People turned up with cakes and biscuits, made teas, organised seating and helped out in a number of ways. The audience was enthusiastic, and much larger than expected. The church was nearly full, and everyone was full of excitement and enthusiasm.
The choir of about 80 singers, dressed in assorted sweaters, scarves and wellies, gave a heartfelt rendition of the moving and glorious music, with superb input from the soloists. One singer said afterwards, “There was such a great atmosphere at Christ Church, it was a privilege to be there. It made a triumph out of a disaster.”
Frome’s Mayor, cllr Sheila Gore was also able to attend and commented, “It was a lovely concert and all the better for the ‘let’s just do it’ attitude.”
Frome Voices say, “The German visitors headed for home having enjoyed their unexpected adventure, and with new friendships forged. Surely this story must be yet another example of Frome’s community spirit at its best.”
Frome Voices hopes to run the full performance later in the year, so watch out for publicity in due course.
