John
Choir Member: Bass
John is one of the founding members of The Fishpond Choir and an ever joyful member of the bass section. He lives with his wife in Beeley, and as well as his musical interests, enjoys numerous overseas trips each year.
“I joined the Fishpond Choir in the Spring of 2001, soon after it was founded. I have always loved singing, in the shower or into someone’s ear at the end of the night at the disco, but the last choir I was in was when I was a boy soprano in the Rotherham Grammar School Choir, sometime in the 1950s!
I went to the ‘Pond’ with three friends and neighbours from Beeley, one of whom had heard about a new singing group from a workmate. We were immediately made welcome and to feel at home and were impressed by how relaxed everything felt. There was no need for auditions, or for members to be able to read music. I still can’t do the latter, but can tell where the notes go up and down and if I don’t know some obscure musical term (my Italian is not that good), there is always someone on hand to explain. Now, as it was then, the only requirement needed to be a member of the Fishpond Choir, is a love of music and singing.
The rehearsals are hard work, but we always have time for a laugh. Our musical director is a consummate professional, but she is always aware that everybody has different needs and ways of learning.
After a while, the choir becomes like a very caring and protective family that looks out for its members.
Of course, the most important thing is the performing; giving the audience an enjoyable evening and a life enhancing experience. I remember a man coming up to me after we had done a charity concert and saying, “that was superb, we are so grateful to all of you for giving up your Saturday night to come and sing for us.”
I thanked him in turn but then realised that I had never seen it as giving my time up. There really was nothing I would rather have been doing on a Saturday evening.
I am proud to have been a member of the fabulous Fishpond Choir for nearly twenty–five years.”
