The Singing Day in Salisbury on Saturday 27 February 2010 was a resounding success and enjoyed by over 40 singers.
“Uplifting and very moving” “Inspirational” “Beautifully organised and managed” “I feel like I have been on holiday” “A truly memorable experience”
Sarum College Chapel in the Cathedral Close provided the perfect acoustic in which to begin our singing and we were soon creating rich harmonies and vibrant rhythms. From the chapel we processed in silence into the Cathedral to take our place in a circle at the magnificent spire crossing. Beginning on a single note, we could clearly hear the harmonics created by the building ringing above us. Our lively South African and Gospel songs resonated around the building and contrasted with the stillness of a beautiful Taize Sanctus, begun with a solo voice.
After a hearty lunch in the College we gathered in the largest medieval cloisters in Britain, to be joined as we sang by two children dancing, enchanted by the sound. After the formality of the cathedral the atmosphere was light and relaxed and singers enjoyed moving amongst each other as we sang. A time of stillness followed as Jane invited singers to close their eyes and led the group in a simple period of improvisation, a profoundly moving experience. Before leaving the cathedral we had the privilege of singing in the glorious Chapter House, sheer joy.
The day was led jointly by Sue Glanville and Jane Harris. Sue leads creative retreats in beautiful and sacred places, and has co-led many walking and singing journeys, including Bardsey Island, Wells and Glastonbury, and India. Jane leads the three Songways Choirs.