An evening of Baroque beauty, tempered by the more worldly pleasure of contemporary jazz.
Luch Caise-Dearg, Classical Journey
History
Clyst Valley Choral Society was formed in 1968 by David and Pam Howes . They were keen to have a group which would unite the Clyst Valley Group of Parishes: Aylesbeare, Rockbeare, Farringdon, Woodbury Salterton, Clyst St. George and Clyst St. Mary.
They persuaded local organist, David Lyon-Smith, to become the society's first conductor and Bernard Russell, their first accompanist. Only five people attended the first rehearsal, but the membership soon grew to twenty-five.
In the 1970's the choir moved to its new home at Clyst St. Mary Church, where rehearsals still take place each Thursday.
The society celebrated its fortieth anniversary in 2008 and to mark this special occasion Rossini's Stabat Mater was performed.
After nearly fifty years, the founders of the Society would be pleased with how their vision of 1968 has evolved – a society where anyone who loves to sing can enjoy making music together.
Musical Directors
1968-1970 David Lyon-Smith
1970-1981 Rodney Dingle
1981-1987 Mark Perry
1987-1992 John Draisey
1992 Rodney Dingle
1992-1997 Nicky Perry
1997- Paul Stock
Works performed have ranged from Baroque to Twentieth Century, from English to Danish, with some Jazz, Opera and Lieder. Our main concerts always include a chamber ensemble as well as an organ, making our concerts different to the standard choral society. We also like to include instrumental and vocal solos in addition to the main choral works. Please see slide show above for an idea of some past concert programmes.
