Young singers from across the area have given their first concert under new conductor, Ben de Souza.
The Taplow Children’s Choir, for 7- to 11-year-olds, appeared alongside the Taplow Boys’ Choir, in a concert at St Nicolas’ Church on Sunday (4 December). They were joined by children from the Slough Youth Soul Choir, under the direction of Rebecca Richardson.
The programme included a range of festive favourites and congregational carols. Young soloists from each of the choirs also showcased their talents.
Mr de Souza, 28, was appointed leader of the junior Taplow Choirs sections in September. He is himself a former member of the organisation, having sung in their Youth Choir during his teenage years.
He said: “It’s been a bit of history repeating itself, as I always loved the tradition of singing in the Christmas concerts as part of Taplow Choirs.
“To now be working with the younger choirs, and playing a part in the musical education of these wonderful young people, is such a joy,” he added. “I am very proud to be doing this job.”
More than 50 children took part in Sunday’s concert, including 38 from the Taplow-based music group.
It has already been a busy month for the organisation, whose members are drawn from across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. As well as the unauditioned groups, Taplow Choirs includes sections for more developed voices, under the direction of Gillian Dibden MBE.
On Saturday, her Girls’ Choir sang in a performance of Benjamin Britten’s cantata ‘Saint Nicolas’. It followed a high-profile charity concert in London, involving the Taplow Youth Choir and celebrity guests including Mary Berry. The Youth Choir will also perform at Ascot Brass’s annual Christmas concert, taking place at St Mary’s Church in Maidenhead this Saturday (10 December).
There are still spaces for primary-aged children wishing to join the Taplow Children’s and Boys’ Choirs in the New Year. For more information, gillian.dibden@gmail.com