On Saturday 22^nd January choristers and instrumentalists from all parts of the Diocese came together to enjoy an inspiring day of music and singing arranged by the A&B Music Committee. It was hosted by the Sisters of The Towers Convent in Upper Beeding, who not only allowed us the use of an excellent venue, but also provided ample refreshments throughout the day. We were lead by  Peter Olsen, Tony Charlier, Anne Ward and Michael Carver with Michael also playing piano and coping with a very extensive range of music. I’m afraid I lost count of just how many items.

Peter Olsen started the day off with pieces from “Cantate”, a book of short chants, hymns, responses, and liturgies. His selection had a wonderful African flavour in particular Ahsanti Yesu, amin, (We thank you, Jesus),from Tanzania, which met with the approval of Sister Consolata who hails from that part of the world. Tony Charlier then whipped through a list of items from the new supplement to “Celebration for Everyone” with hymns, service music, psalms and canticles etc. Anne Ward took over after our lunch break with, as she said, “something old something new”. Several settings had been composed especially for the day and which we were allowed to take home! One, Gloria 3, Anne composed for Steyning ,my parish. Thank you  Anne we are delighted and very grateful. The day was exhilarating and informative and the buzz in the hall, which grew as the day progressed, was clear evidence of everyone’s enjoyment and approval. The day closed at 4pm with a short service of reflection, prayer, and songs which were our favourite pieces from the day’s work. It was a joy to hear so many voices come together in harmony, and produce such a wonderful sound. It made the day very special for us all.

John Green  Christ the King  Steyning