REVIEW

Kentwood Youth Choir

Swindon Arts Centre

Kentwood is synonymous with great entertainment and excellent singing and this concert was no exception.

The young people of Kentwood Youth Choir sang their hearts out tomany different genres of music, accompanied by principal Sheila Harrod and Gary Bamford on keyboards, Tracy Absalom on bass guitar and Andy Griffiths on percussion. It was a pleasure to sit and listen to these musicians, who are at the top of their game.

The sound that came from the small group of singers in the choir was some of the best I have heard for a long time. From the youngest to the eldest, during solos, duets and full choir numbers, the notes soared to the roof of the Arts Centre, never once drowned out by the music and not a backing track in site. It would be difficult to pick a favourite as they all sang with ease and 100 per cent commitment.

The simple staging and routines were choreographed beautifully by Rachel Sparrow, who guested to give us a very memorable rendition of Memory from Cats.

These young ladies of the choir, and one very small young man, gave their all with a programme of some very difficult music and lyrics for ones so young: Bui-Doi from Miss Saigon a case in point.

The choir looked smart in their many outfits and lighting and sound was expertly managed.

It was nice to hear the comments on the way out, congratulating all concerned. The concert was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended, myself included.

Kentwood's next concert is the full choir for their Christmas Cracker at the Wyvern Theatre on Sunday, November 17 at 6.30pm.

ROS HOLLANDS