‘I Hear Music in the Air’ Decibellas concert – 16th May 2014

A wonderful review from the High Sheriff of Chester ...

St Boniface Church, Bunbury witnessed some joyful gospel music and singing when the Decibellas were joined by Tarporley CE Primary School Choir with guest appearances by soloist Kadria Thomas and her son Aidan who accompanied some of the choral music on Friday night.  The evening of inspirational and uplifting music, interspersed with moving and thought provoking narrative was inspired by “12 Years a Slave” and held in aid of Anti-Slavery International.  It was especially poignant as we were asked to remember the 230 schoolgirls in Nigeria taken by Boko Haram over a month ago and still being held captive.

The Decibellas is an award winning ladies choir formed four years ago and based in Tarporley.  They do not audition but rather the choir is open to all women who love to sing – a love which was certainly apparent over the course of the evening.  Their new Musical Director, Kathleen Ryan, joined them in January and the choir were fulsome in their praise for her.  This was the choir’s first excursion into gospel music, which has involved them learning about gospel music in a workshop with Kadria’s husband Tyndale.  Audience participation was encouraged and towards the end of the evening Kadria had us all clapping and singing along.

The Primary School Choir sang three numbers on their own and then joined the Decibellas in a rousing finale.  Emma Hunter, Chairman of the Decibellas thanked everyone who had contributed to the evening before refreshments were served.  Not only are we told that singing is good for you but the Decibellas are doing good as well and I was thrilled to have been invited to join them for such a memorable evening.