ON SATURDAY, March 21, a discerning audience experienced a wonderful concert in the finest Choral tradition at Central Methodist Church, Bude.

The programme consisted of just one item — Haydn's 'The Seasons'. This work, composed at the end of the 18th century, covers a whole year in the life of simple country folk:

The part of Simon, the father, was taken by bass David Fouracre who sang with clear, resonant tones. The part of his daughter Jane was performed by Catherine Hamilton, whose excellent diction, range and perfect pitch delighted an appreciative audience. The love interest, Lucas, was provided by tenor Leslie Baker on a welcome return visit to Bude. The story line was an 18th century equivalent of 'The Archers' being mainly about country pursuits, field sports and the weather.

The Director of Music, John Hobbs had conducted Bude Choral Society's performance of this work in 1977 and 1992 and his previous experience showed to great effect. The choir blended comfortably with the soloists, the music being well within their scope. David Robinson played the organ accompaniment and Sylvia Goldspink provided delightful continuo highlights on the church keyboard.

The organ part, replacing an entire orchestra, was particularly demanding and David with his dexterous fingering rose to the challenge and drew the essence of the composer's intentions from the instrument. In the opinion of the members of the audience, the Choral Society was in fine voice and did justice to their own hard work with an excellent performance.

This completes the Choral Society's 2008/2009 season. Plans are in hand for the next event which will take place on Saturday, November 21. It will be a Concert of Remembrance Music including the first performance of a work by local composer Sam Cave, followed by 'The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace' by Karl Jenkins. Details will be announced nearer the time.