Saturday, November 22 was celebrated throughout the musical world as Saint Cecilia's Day, as she was the Patron Saint of Music. In Bude the Choral Society celebrated the event with a special concert at Central Methodist Church which was the venue for the performance of three works to honour the occasion.

As it was a special event, the choir had engaged an excellent orchestra of nearly twenty musicians to accompany the singers. This was the first time for many years that such an operation had been staged in Bude and an appreciative audience enjoyed the evening's performances.

The first half of the concert commenced with 'An Ode for St Cecilia's Day' composed by John Blow in 1691. The solo part was sung mainly by local countertenor, Max Burrows accompanied by the orchestra with David Robinson playing continuo on the keyboard.

This was followed by a work called 'Come Ye Sons of Art', which had been written by Henry Purcell for Queen Mary's birthday in 1694. It had been well orchestrated and reflected the style of John Blow who had taught Purcell music composition. The work was performed with great feeling and with clear diction from the singers, it was a pleasure to listen to.

The final work of the evening, 'Messe Solennelle de St Cécile' by Charles-Francois Gounod, was in a class of its own. David Robinson transferred to the organ and, under the direction of the conductor John Hobbs, led the massed voices of the Choral Society, soprano Tina Gladwin, tenor Les Baker and bass David Fouracre, together with orchestra, led by Dan Kent in this very un-solemn Mass.

Beautiful melodies, catchy motifs and heartbreaking harmonies blended together to bring an evening dedicated to St Cecilia to a most joyous conclusion. It would be unfair to single out any one musician to praise above the others, as this was truly a wonderful collaboration of talent and abilities.

It is only a short time before the next offering of Bude Choral Society, which will again be in Central Methodist Church on Wednesday, December 17, when a concert called 'Carols for Christmas' will be presented.

As its name implies it will be a Christmas musical event using the talents of the Choral Society, the Mini-Minstrels, the Bude Wind Ensemble as well as solo items by members of the choir. There will be familiar Carols for the audience to join in, after which seasonal refreshments will be served. The event will be in aid of Cornwall Air Ambulance and it is hoped that the proceeds will exceed last year's donation of £500 for this worthy charity.