Big Sing 2010

NYTB sailed into uncharted waters somewhat, when B/M Glenn Barlow embarked on an ambitious venture at Toronto’s prestigious Roy Thomson Hall at the end of November.

Titled ‘The Big Sing’, the event featured a chorus of 1000 voices, special guest Songster Ldr. Darren Bartlett, and the NYT Band. Styled along the lines of the popular BBC TV programme, ‘Songs of Praise’, the concert consisted of popular hymns old and modern. [read more...]

The Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir presented a solo item with the stirring ‘Battle Hymn of the Republic’. Two cornets and snare drum were added to good effect. The congregation was invited to join the 1000 voice choir in many of the songs. Featured songs and hymns included ‘When the Saints go marching in’; Now thank we all our God’; How great Thou art’; ‘Christ is made the sure foundation’; Who is on the Lord’s side’; ‘Praise to the Lord the Almighty’; ‘Crown Him with many crowns’; and ‘Amazing love (and can it be)’.

Most of the hymn accompaniments featured special arrangements by notable S. A. composers, such as Len Ballantine, Richard Phillips and William Himes. Darren Bartlett excelled in several vocal solos, particularly ‘Amazing Grace’; In Christ alone’; You’ll never walk alone’; and his own Christmas medley arrangement titled ‘Angelic Rhapsody’ (trs. Marcus Venables). The Highland Creek Pipe Band came on stage to present two items with the band, namely ‘Abide with me’, and the ever popular ‘Amazing Grace’.

NYTB also added to the evening’s variety of music with a scintillating performance of Peter Graham’s new work ‘Seize the Day’, contrasted with a moving rendition of Goff Richard’s arrangement of ‘I’ll walk with God’, and Martin Cordner’s up tempo opener,’ Celebrate and Sing’. Although the Hall was not full, given this was a first ‘Big Sing’ for Toronto audiences, it was a most encouraging turnout, and judging by the comments received from those that were there, word of mouth communication will no doubt result in a sell out for the next already planned ‘Big Sing’, to be held November 6th 2011. Mark it on your calendar!