Those Were The Days

Watersides’ spring concert was an interesting mix of the music of the late 60’s and early 70’s, a time when popular music was beginning to change after the excitement of Rock and Roll, with more thoughtful, interesting lyrics.

Steven Moulster wrote some excellent arrangements of the songs and the very competent “chorus” sang well, confidently singing the harmonies – some of them quite tricky. I particularly liked “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” and the ensemble enjoyed singing it too.

Helen Sanderson sang George Harrisons’ “Give me Love” beautifully and Gwen Moulster and Lisa Phillips were first-rate with their medley of “So Far Away” and “You’ve Got a Friend”. Jen Edwards provided a bit of comic relief with a lovely clear rendition of “Ernie – the Fastest Milkman in the West”. Her accent was perfect, but then Benny Hill was almost a local boy!

The songs were interspersed with just the lyrics of some famous songs, and it was clear that people like Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell were really writing poetry. The performers spoke beautifully, making the words very interesting and meaningful.

Rose Butler, piano, was an expert accompanist, assisted by Steven Moulster, guitar, Chris Talbot, reed, and several members of the society on a variety of instruments. Steven was overall Director and Chris was also Musical Director for many numbers, but others took part too.

It was good to see so many society members “doing their bit” – singing, playing, reciting, conducting. It was a true ensemble performance, much enjoyed by a very appreciative audience.

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