Local Group Report – Beechwood Wednesday 2nd November 2016

The gathered throng at this month’s Beechwood put their voices together to sing through the songs most likely to be used at the Weald and Downland Museum’s Christmas Market event later this month. From last year’s set the two Holly carols and Wassail were aired, also the Sussex Mummers Song including a pleasing three times ‘round’ on the last refrain. The Moon Shone Bright was tried with the gents joining in throughout, singing softly alongside the ladies. We then worked on While Shepherds Watched with the harmony parts, the Coppers’ Christmas Song and also Hark the Herald after agreeing with the Selham group’s recommendation to trim it by not repeating the refrain. Christmas Drawing Near was discussed, but the majority present did not favour singing it – so the minority await another opportunity to give it a try! An in-house ‘flashmob’ struck up with Sweet Chiming Bells to resume proceedings after our thirst-quenching break and later the Sussex Carol closed the session on an uplifting note. And there’s the promise of more... at the Extra Session booked at the Beechwood for 23rd November!