Crickhowell sings!
Posted: 4th July 2025The Clarence Hall was packed to the rafters this week for the Crickhowell Community Concert – a joyful evening of music presented by Crickhowell Choral Society in collaboration with Crick Voices, a vibrant project bringing together pupils from local primary schools.
Conducted by Stephen Marshall and Victoria Callow, and accompanied by Chris Lovegrove, the concert was a celebration of musical collaboration across generations. From classical choral pieces to iconic show tunes and chart hits, the programme offered something for everyone – and the audience responded with enthusiastic applause throughout.
A particular highlight of the evening was the contribution of the Crick Voices choir, made up of pupils from local primary schools who have been participating in a year-long singing project supported by the Llangattock Community Education Trust. This inspiring initiative aims to embed singing into school life and the children’s enthusiasm and talent were clear for all to see.
The first half featured choral works such as Alleluia in die resurrectionis by Michael Haydn and Die Nachtigall by Mendelssohn, alongside a vocal solo from Charlotte Bathgate and a dynamic set of Bernstein’s West Side Story songs, performed by the choir with soloists Iris Cole and Ethan Stockham. Pianist Daniel Keevil gave a stunning solo performance of Rachmaninoff’s Polichinelle in F# minor, with the first half ending with a moving rendition of Seasons of Love by the combined choirs.
After the interval, the concert continued with lively opera choruses, a moving rendition of O Gymru, solos by Iris Cole and Grace Livsey and an outstanding performance of Abba’s Mamma Mia by Crick Voices. The concert closed with a rousing joint choir performance of Freddie Mercury’s Somebody to Love, featuring Gracie Jayne Fitzgerald and an energetic live band with Gareth Rees on electric guitar, Cerith Evans on bass guitar and Phill O’Sullivan on drums.
The Clarence Hall was buzzing with community spirit throughout the evening and the concert provided a powerful reminder of the importance of music and the arts in education and community life. Congratulations to all the performers and a huge thank you to all who came to support. Special thanks too to Stephen Marshall and Victoria Callow for creating such a memorable night.
We look forward to seeing what the Crick Voices project will bring next year!