Don’t Stop Me Now!

Elliot was having a good time!

Don't Stop Me Now.

The first half of the evening was spent reviewing the songs we are less confident in and reminding us of the areas we need to be aware of, like the dunce holes, which occur in more than one of the songs. We also discussed the notes that need holding on a little longer than we expect and those that should be short, as well as building up the sound to crescendos to give that emotional effect.

All these small things are crucial as they significantly impact the sound and dynamics of our audience. It only takes one person (or more than one, as was the case last night) to spoil the dramatic effect. 

You must watch the Musical Director – the clue is in the name – he directs us. 

If you are familiar with the music from your hours and hours of practice, you can confidently look up your music score and watch and obey!

This will be drilled into you on Eamonn’s return leading up to the concert on 17 July (for those who have forgotten!)

Generally, keep everything bright so the high notes don’t go flat and keep up the energy needed to give the songs their full impact. This energy is still required for the quiet songs as well as the fast-paced ones.

After a short break and a recap, we performed our mini concert nonstop with great verve and enjoyment.

This was done alphabetically and highlighted the wonderful contrast of the different songs, starting with our quiet, meditative And So It Goes and ending with an upbeat Walking on Sunshine.

Elliot recorded our renditions to send to Eamonn, who can see how much work we’ve done and how much more work needs to be done!

I think we did ourselves proudly, showed we had done our homework, and listened to Elliot’s guidance; well, most of us, apart from those who fell into the dunce hole!

Be warned: If that happens in the future, you will get the Eamonn glare, which is far more threatening!

Bring it on!

Don’t stop now; keep these songs fresh in your mind. Eamonn will add new songs to Dropbox and revisit them occasionally to polish and fine-tune them for the concert.

We were so fortunate to encounter Elliot nine years ago. He stepped in at the last minute when we were struggling after a series of several MDs who were not a good fit for us, and he led us to the most successful concert in such a short time. He was a breath of fresh air, and even though he was so young, he soon had us licked into shape.

He knows us well and is always welcome back if Eamonn has other commitments. He has set us more considerable challenges because he believes in us and has instilled in us the knowledge that we can make him and us proud. 

Hopefully, he will be a guest of honour at our concert and hear his arrangements performed to perfection.