The Scratchetts and Scratch Choir at York Minster

On the way down on the coach Amber, Angel, Kirsty, Megan and Niamh kept everyone entertained with their singing from the back seat. It was a good thing they were feeling so cheerful as the gown ups were getting distinctly nervous after hearing the two choirs who were on after the YUMI warblers in the first half.

When it was our turn to perform Amber, Angel, Kirsty, Megan and Niamh were completely unfazed by the occasion. Their solo singing in 'Summer Time', with Bridie's lively guitar accompaniment, was very confident and lovely. After a slightly nervous start we all got into our swing with 'Belle', perhaps as good as we've ever done it. The master stroke was Andy introducing an unplanned rendition of the Gospel Medley with audience participation. The audience were rocking in the aisles (well almost!).

We got back to Durham very late after a truly memorable and enjoyable evening.

The first choir was the 'York Madly Aspiring Musicians association', a group of seven University music students, who gave us a taste of Shape Note music. This uses a form of musical notation designed for congregational singing and orginated in the southern states of the USA about 200 years ago. The purity of the voices and the intricate harmonies were particualrly suited to the setting of the Minster. Chechelele were a complete contrast, with their colourful costumes, African harmonies and rhythmic movements. The evocation of the sounds of a rain storm in the rainforest was unforgettable.