Richard Thompson, choir member, is featured as part of a series on choir member profiles.
The rural surroundings of Corris, at the foothills of Cader Idris, is where Richard Thompson grew up. It was a close-knit community.
Corris – Lower to be Precise
Life centred around the school, church and chapel. Village activities were also prominent such as the Urdd (League of Youth) and ‘The Band of Hope.’
Singing and Village Life
Singing always took a prominent part in village life. Richard recalls his first public solo performance in Salem Church, Corris.
Richard Thompson – Young Soloist
‘At the age of five I heard that I was to sing ‘Gwahoddiad.’ On my own.
Standing in front of the pulpit. Legs trembling. With a tremulous voice I got through the first verse.
Then I glanced up towards the big clock in the centre of the Gallery.
I could see my Taid (Grandfather). Copious tears glistening down his rosy, weather-beaten cheeks.
He also gave me a reassuring smile. It told me that I was doing just fine. It’s a lifetime image that I will never forget.’
The song naturally remains a life-long favourite.
Richard Thompson Musical Tastes
Then Elvis Presley came along. Followed by ‘The Beatles’ and the swinging sixties. Popular music changed for ever.
Richard is fond of close harmony groups such as The Eagles, Supertramp, and Pink Floyd.
He also likes the story-telling songs of performers like Ralph McTell and James Taylor.
Richard also gained choral experience with the North Wales Hospital Mixed Choir and the Trelawnyd Male Voice Choir.
Richard Thompson Choir Highlights
The Summer Season Concerts at St John’s Church, Llandudno are always eagerly anticipated .
Richard Thompson
Above all, very favourable acoustics. The cosmopolitan audiences are also always appreciative.
Also, the ‘backstage’ facilities are comfortable. Always a refreshing cup of tea and biscuits at the interval.
Additionally, Richard has no hesitation in naming two stand out memorable experiences.
The first was a four day trip to Biebertal, Germany in 2013.
Biebertal Concert 2013
The choir took part in the 25 year celebrations of the twinning association with Denbigh.
25th Anniversary Gala Concert
The second is the Gala Concert on November 30, 2013.
A celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Choir.
In fact, guest artistes Rhys Meirion and Annette Bryn Parri, made it a night to remember.
Moreover, the standing ovation from a packed cathedral at St Asaph was something to savour and treasure.
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