More News

We know that at times that some things do not go according to plan, especially where health is concerned. Half a dozen or so of our guys have experienced heart – by -- pass, triple and quadruple, pacemakers fitted, prostate problems, diagnosed Parkinson’s, arm with artery, vein nerve issues, blood pressure limits and other stuff. One of our baritones had to leave as he was being beset with dementia Alzheimer issues. We wish for him calmness and safety, upholding his wife and carers in their daily efforts. There is a semi retirement from the 2nd Tenors – due to prolonged illness, we wish for him a recovery that will help him sing and smile in the choir again. Now, we have one guy who has fallen from his horse twice in the space of a few months sustaining broken ribs and sore other parts with bruising. (Horse is ok). Another who fell out of a tree whilst cutting /pruning, no breaks! Only aches! Timber! There are a few that keep falling over their walking sticks.

The good news hooray! Is that other than two of them they returned to choir rehearsals within days and a few weeks. Our thanks for the skills of medical science.

What this tells me is that there are strong aspirations with choristers to continue to enjoy being a part the Cannock Chase Orpheus Male Choir and one of its many strength’s in fantastic camaraderie. As a choir, we have that ability to “laugh at ourselves” enjoying singing and generally being a happy lot. Note: If I have missed out anyone or their issues then I apologise. There is bound to be one or two?

Condolences:
Earlier in the year our Deputy Conductor, Accompanist, Frank Morris, lost his beloved wife Angela of many years after a very long illness. She was freed from this mortal coil to be with her “Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ”.
It was a very special funeral with members of the choir aiding the organ music and singing. Frank, said he never experienced an outpouring of emotion like happened as the congregation began to sing, “How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds”
The caring example of what Frank did for Angela and his family of 3 children, 3 grand children is without doubt a wonderful picture of a husband and father and grandfather. During this difficult period of 3 + years Frank continued to serve the choir with distinction. The whole of the choir give him a very special thank you.

Congratulations:
The oldest singing member of the choir is sprightly 95yrs young Cyril Hockham (tenor). Together with his wife Ursula, 93 yrs they have celebrated 70 years of marriage. His tenor colleagues say he is still hitting the high notes. Wonderful!

Our Musical Director, Alan D Jones together with his wife Patricia (Pat), was recently invited and attended a Queens Buckingham Palace Garden Party. It was in recognition of their unstinting work on behalf of their service to the choir, their church and community work of many years. It was a very great honour for them both. Hey! Next time you see Alan, ask him what the weather was like and the stories of the day. It’s a hoot! The choir is very proud of Alan and Pat.

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