From Classics to Jazz (and All Things in Between!)
David Morris’s picture above shows L-R: Lady Gretton, Maureen, Faith and Rachael.
The concert took place on Saturday 1st April at Syston Methodist Church to a very appreciative audience and proved to be a great success despite unforeseen circumstances. Unfortunately, after a successful rehearsal in the afternoon, Rachael found out at very short notice that the pianist was unable to return to play at the concert. As the saying goes, ‘the show must go on’ – and so it did! Rachael played the whole of her programme unaccompanied (adding an extra piece into the mix!) and her daughter Faith, aged 9, was an absolute star in this her first concert, playing extra pieces on the trombone and even opening the second half with an Irish dance display! Rachael’s husband Doug was called upon to add some impromptu piano music to the second half, although until he sat down at the piano, he had no idea what he was going to play! What emerged was a fascinating improvised piece of music which was very well received by the audience. After a donation was made to church funds to help with the running costs, a total of £425 was raised on the night and since then, Maureen has received a further £30 in donations making a total of £455 for LOROS.
Maureen and Rachael would like to thank the audience, everyone who helped with the concert and the ten local businesses who donated raffle prizes for their support in helping to raise money for LOROS.
Since they started giving the concerts in 2000, and combined with their virtual cycle rides during lockdown when the concerts weren’t possible – one year to Norfolk and back and the next from Lands End to John O’Groats – they have raised over £10,000 for LOROS, a charity that is very close to their hearts.
Rachael accompanying Faith. Picture by David Morris