Majestic Theatre, Darlington – 17 May 2017
The intimate surroundings of the Majestic Theatre in Darlington provided an ideal stage for the performers of Darlington Community Wind Band and Darlington SING Community Choir to showcase their talents on a diverse selection of old favourites and new repertoire.
The fabulous acoustics of this new theatre proved to be a wonderful setting for the magical music. And as many in the audience said, the venue was the perfect size after the loss of the old Arts Centre and with the Hippodrome not just shut for refurbishment but also just too large for the intimacy this music deserves.
The Darlington Community Wind Band originally formed in 2006, was skillfully directed by Ed Thompson – a serving bandsman with The Band of The Royal Armoured Corps in Catterick, showing its proficiency and musical taste, delivering a beautifully well-rounded concert.
This was a performance of very high calibre – and great entertainment. And whilst I would be hard pushed to name the pieces they were highly enjoyable and performed perfectly
Darlington SING Community Choir has been running since 2012 led by Musical Director Bridie Jackson they presented a programme of songs which was was beautifully varied and gave much pleasure to the audience.
The members of the choir produced a warm, pleasing tone with good intonation. As with so many choirs, the women outnumbered the men, but this didn’t spoil the entertainment and everyone left the Majestic having been thoroughly entertained.
The members of Darlington Community Wind Band and Darlington SING Community Choir come from in and around the local area – all connected by a desire to make collective music. This surely is an example of “community” at its best. And I look forward to seeing the Darlington Community Wind Band and Darlington SING Community Choir perform at the Majestic again.