A CENTURY OF SONG

BARRY MALE VOICE CHOIR

1902 - 2002.

A short history by Clive and Graham Edwards

Foreword

What an achievement! Despite two World Wars, the advent of radio and television and all

the other social changes, one hundred years of unbroken music.

As you read these pages you will see how the choir has developed and changed over the

years. From its small origins as a party of twelve men it grew to be more than one hundred

strong. In the early days the emphasis was on competitions and the success achieved was

considerable. In recent years this has changed to supporting worthwhile causes by giving

concerts to assist in raising funds. Today nearly twenty charities benefit from the choir’s

activities each year.

Not only does the choir help the community in many ways – it is also a community in itself.

Members cannot attend two practices every week, and perform in all the concerts ,without

creating a bond among themselves which is shown in the practical ways in which it supports

the choristers in time of need.

The choir is an important part of the life of the town. There are no other cultural

organisations that have served the town for so long and so well, and have brought so much

distinction to the name of Barry. In other ways too the choir has served the town. You will

read how the link with our twin town of Rheinfelden came about through the activities of the

choir. The friendships that have developed between families in Rheinfelden and Barry make

this twinning a very real one. It is based on personal contacts , so it truly is “Friendship

through Music”

I express my appreciation to the authors, Clive and Graham Edwards, and commend this

booklet to you as a fascinating chronicle of a remarkable organisation, of which we as

Barrians can be very proud and of which I have had the privilege of being President for over

forty years.

Gareth Howe

The Early Years.

At the beginning of the last century Barry was developing into a major port. The recently

completed docks had brought migrant workers from far and wide ensuring the town’s rapid

expansion from a few insignificant villages into one of the world’s largest exporters of coal.

This massive explosion in population created a growing need for more social

entertainment in the town.- not for everyone the dubious attractions of Thompson Street and

Dock View Road. The cinematograph was still in its infancy and it would be some years

before the start of radio broadcasting. One of the main sources of entertainment was

provided by the churches and chapels of the district which were the home of many amateur

theatrical and musical societies.

It was against this background that, in February 1902, twelve young men from

Tynewydd Road Congregational Church formed the Barry Dock Glee Party, which was

soon to be known as the Barry Dock Male Voice Choir.

Records of the first few years of the choir are rather sketchy; the first documented

performance being a ‘coffee supper’ in early January ,1903 at the Tynewydd Road Church.

It was conducted by founder D.J. Thomas and “ the party acquitted themselves in a most

creditable manner, displaying excellent musical taste .”

Of the “ twelve good men and true” who established the choir little is known.

However, D.J.Thomas and E.L.Powell, deputy conductor, were both teachers at High Street

School for many years.

A Barry notable who makes an early appearance in the choir’s history is Colonel J.A.

Hughes ( Chairman, Barry Urban District Council and local solicitor). In October 1903 he is

recorded as being chairman when the choir, under D.J’s leadership and now 30 strong, won

its inaugural first prize (of £6) in the Sunday School Union Eisteddfod at Wood Street

Congregational Church, Cardiff singing Daniel Protheroe’s arrangement of the sacred part

song ..In the sweet by-and-by.

All in all the first full year of the choir appears to have been a resounding success with

many performances and a notable win.

The first annual concert took place in April 1904 at Romilly Hall with “ tickets priced

at 1,2, and 3 shillings available at Mr Windsors’s, 99 Holton Road – carriages arranged for

ten o’clock”. The accompanist for the evening was J.M. Lloyd (later Dr.J.M.Morgan Lloyd,

Professor of Music at University College, Cardiff.) Included in the performance was Martyrs

of the Arena by Laurent de Rille, which was the test piece for the forthcoming Caerphilly

Eisteddfod where the Choir was awarded second prize.

In September 1904 it was reported that “The choir now practices at the Woodland

Hotel, the practice room having been furnished and decorated at the expense of the choir.

The membership at present stands at 71 and it is hoped soon to increase the number to 80 or

100”

The first major event in 1905 was the annual concert in February to raise funds for the

recent move. One of the choristers present was second bass Dan Evans who sold concert

tickets from his ironmongers shop in Holton Road. In June the choir competed at the

Aberdare Eisteddfod and won first prize.

In November the choir contributed “two well rendered choruses” at a charity evening

in support of the local orphans fund of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants. The

same month arrangements were made with the Barry Railway Company to run a special train

to Neath so that the choristers could compete at the Gwyn Hall — fare 3shillings.

The concert on New Year’s Day, 1906, must have been a sombre affair. It was held to

raise funds for a Mr. W. Bilson of Regent Street but sadly he died a few hours before it

began. Apparently the organisers were consoled by the fact that “...a few days before his

death the deceased man expressed great pleasure at the prospect of liquidating his liabilities

and was much comforted by the reflection that this had been accomplished.”

The annual concert in February received great acclaim. Much local interest was shown

in the rendition of The Keyhole, sung by Richard Thomas, accompanied by J.Morgan Lloyd

— the composer of the piece.

At about this time, for reasons unknown, it was decided to change the name again and

become the Barry Male Voice Choir.

Mr.D.J.Thomas Mr.E.L.Powell

Conductor 1902-1940. Deputy Conductor

Barry Male Voice Choir, outside the Institute, Woodlands Road c 1906

On Easter Monday it was competition time again at Abergavenny where the choir took

part in two contests; being narrowly beaten into second place for its rendition of On the

Ramparts and equal second for the test piece Comrades in Arms. However, all was not lost

as it was awarded the “platform despatch” prize and following this, in September, came first

at Whitchurch.

In March, 1907, a grand benefit concert was held for Mr. Rees Williams, a coal

trimmer, who, after long illness, had been sent by doctors to India for health reasons !!

In June the choir won the £25 first prize at Rhymney. The adjudicator, Dr. Coleridge

Taylor, remarked "...he had heard the test piece, O Peaceful Night, many times but never

hoped to hear it sung better." Following hot on the heels of this success came another at

Pontyclun; this time £20 first prize and a gold medal for D.J.Thomas.

In April, 1909, the men missed the boat (or rather the train!) when, competing again at

the Welsh Mecca of Eisteddfodwyr, Abergavenny, a considerable number lost their

connection at Cardiff station. They were consequently beaten into second place for o'want of

noise." Another second prize followed at Rhymney over the Whit week-end. However,

things looked promising for the future of Barry choral singing with Romilly School Choir

notching up a double first at Caerphilly and Rhymney. Another second place followed later

in the year at Newport.

At Llanharan in May 1910 the Newport test piece, Lead kindly light, proved a winner

with adjudicator Harry Evans stating "I have no hesitation whatever in awarding the prize

(£20 and gold medal to conductor) to Barry for an excellent performance."

On a lighter note September saw a Saturday afternoon picnic arranged, with

permission having been gained from Mr.O.H.Jones JP, "to go over the historic grounds of

Fonmon Castle. Brakes will leave the Council Square at 2 o'clock..." The price was 2/3d.

The annual concert of l91l was held in Dinam Hall. "That large edifice was crowded to

its utmost limits by a critical but keenly appreciative audience..." Included in the repertoire

was a rendition of I love my love, composed by Fred Bennett "... a delightfully sweet part

song, very taking in its simplicity." Later in the year the choir performed at the Barry

Boilermakers' Annual Concert - £23 had been raised the previous year for deserving causes.

Dan Evans was reported to be in fine fettle, his performance of Coleman’s Gentleman the

King described as "...a rousing item, which he gave in an equally rousing manner" !!!

March l9l2 saw a benefit concert to "alleviate the suffering of the many hundreds of

people affected by the present coal strike. By the concert provided ... in aid of the Barry

Town Central Relief Fund, the sum of £16.10s was realised."

In July a presentation was made to Miss Maria Morgan, a well- known local vocalist,

of a "handsome lady's companion." At her final concert before emigrating, the choir

performed The Martyrs of the Arena, test piece for the forthcoming Maesteg Eisteddfod.

This contest was a great success with the choir winning not only the male voice contest (£20

and silver cup ) but the quartet receiving two guineas for the same piece.

An "interesting gathering" in December saw D.J. and E.L. Powell honoured for their

excellent musical service to the town. Presentations were made of a silver cake stand and

silver tea kettle and it was announced that the next major objective was the coveted male

voice prize at Abergavenny.

On Easter Monday, 1913, that ambition was achieved by scoring 92 marks out of 100 -

the highest obtained by any choir in South Wales that year.

The annual concert in April featured solo pianist Marie Novello who played with "great

brilliance and technique" and soprano Muriel Jones who “created a marked impression for

the captivating manner in which she sang". The concert programme lists a record number of

108 choristers.

Fred Pullin, accompanist, was presented with a "handsome gold watch" in June for his

valuable service to the choir; also that month the Barry Male Voice Choir United Fu-Foo

Band took first prize for the most humorous tableau in the local carnival !!

The outbreak of the First World War, in August put the kybosh on competitive work;

now the emphasis would be more on charitable concerts with patriotic ballads.

This first period of the choir's existence - little more than a decade - was a time of

almost unparalleled success, achieving at eisteddfodau and competitions across South Wales

and the West of England 110 110 what - prizes?? fewer than nine 1st and eleven 2nd prizes.

The annual concert in March 1915 was as popular as ever, despite the choir’s depleted

numbers. Songs were sung in memory of the fallen — made more poignant by the presence

of wounded soldiers from the Red Cross Hospital.

At the end of 1916 the Institute (Woodland Hotel), the choir’s base for twelve years,

was requisitioned by the Military. However, a practice room was made available to the choir

in the large YMCA building, just a block away, and this was to be its home for over half a

century. In late 1917 it was reported that “...sixty per cent of members of the Barry Male

Voice Choir are serving in the Army and Navy.”

During the war years, in the absence of competitions, the choir devoted it’s time to

needy causes and many hundreds of pounds were raised for numerous local and national

charities, the armed forces and war savings. Concerts were given ill local parks, hospitals

and military camps throughout the area for injured servicemen.

Between the Wars

Barry in the Twenties and Thirties was very different from the thriving town which

was at the peak of its prosperity at the outbreak of war in 1914. The docks were almost

wholly dependent on coal exports but the introduction of oil fuelled ships spelt the gradual

decline in this trade over the next forty years. This resulted in a virtual standstill in the

growth of the town and consequently in the fortunes of the choir.

Over 50 choristers served their country in the war; there is no record of any being

killed, but it is obvious that not all of them returned to the fold. However, DJ was still

wielding his baton and the choir entered many competitions and eisteddfodau but without the

regular victories of the early years.

The only reported successes during this period were first prizes awarded at Llanharan

on Whit Tuesday, 1923, at Bristol Music Festival in March 1928 and at Brecon in June 1930.

Concerts were given for various charitable causes, generally ill? local churches, but also in

the open air during the summer months at Romilly Park and Barry Island.

Annual concerts (proceeds to the YMCA), usually with nationally known soloists,

were held at the Theatre Royal. However, press reports of “. . .row upon row of empty seats”

indicate that the early glory years would not be repeated.

In 1923 the choir came of age and celebrated this by inviting former members to sing

at the annual concert the following February. The augmented choir of 150 voices produced a

wonderful rich tone. It was reported that “. ..finer bass singing has seldom been heard in

Barry. Their toiles were deep and beautiful while the tenors — always a weak spot in the

town — seemed to have taken a new lease of life...”

A notable event, on Empire Day, Sunday 25th May 1924, at the YMCA was the

unveiling by Councillor Dudley Howe (father of current choir president Gareth) of a

memorial to the 52 members who served in the Great War.

In the late Twenties there were several male choirs in Barry and, during a time of

depression, insufficient public support for them all to survive. There was also an on-going

argument in musical circles regarding the merit of competitions and eisteddfodau. A letter in

the local press on this subject read “When the Male Voice Choir went to Bristol it sang as it

had rarely sung before. Mr. D.J.Thomas, the conductor was irresistibly brilliant and the

distinguished adjudicator said so. I ask was it less worthy of the name of music because it

was sung for a prize? The suggestion that Barry choirs should combine would be entertained

by no man who loved music. We do not want selfishness and there is nothing healthier than

rivalry, even if certain choirs in the town have insufficient recognition.”

DJ, Flossie Torrington and Choir with the Fisher Shield – 1928

In November 1932, at the first concert in the new War Memorial Hall, the stage was

shared with the High Street Boys’ School Choir, conducted by E.L.Powell (still deputy

conductor, BMVC). The soloists were Zoe Cresswell (soprano) and Margery Pugh (piano).

The accompanist was Flossie Torrington, regular accompanist from 1926 until 1933.

The following year several half-hour broadcasts were made from the Bristol station of

the BBC and “numerous congratulations from far and near upon their charming recordings

were received”.

In the early Thirties the choir organised annual eisteddfodau, initially at Romilly Hall

and later at the Memorial Hall. These were well supported with competitors coming from all

over South Wales but, for some reason, the 1934 eisteddfod, reported as a great success with

over 200 individual competitors, seems to have been the last. One reason may have been that

E.L.Powell, who retired as headmaster of High Street School at the end of 1935, moved to

Cardiff and left the choir.

At his farewell dinner in the Merrie Friars, Barry Island, following many tributes from

other founder members, Councillor Dan Evans “wondered whether it was not possible for

past and present members to get together and write the history of the choir. He was sure that

such a work would make interesting reading” !!!

War And Peace

Following the outbreak of war, in September 1939, the rigorously imposed “blackout”

regulations caused the Barry churches to move their Sunday evening services to the

afternoon. This produced a near riot among the ranks of BMVC for choir practices had

always been held on Sunday afternoons. Now the conductor and accompanist, Olwen Jones

(also deputy conductor), who were both church organists, advised the committee that they

would be unable to attend practices. There was some discussion about getting a temporary

conductor but it was decided, at the AGM in January 1940, to appoint a deputy from within

the choir and Arthur Beck drew the short straw. The recently appointed deputy accompanist,

twenty-three year old Marjorie Pemberton, became accompanist.

This arrangement was not to last long for in early February, disaster struck when “DJ”

died suddenly at his home, aged 64.

David John Thomas was a native of Trealaw, in the Rhondda Valley, and educated at

Porth Grammar School from where he gained a Queen’s scholarship to University College,

Cardiff in 1896. He was initially unsure whether to pursue a career in music or teaching but

obviously decided on the latter since his first appointment on graduating was to Albert Road

School, Penarth. He didn’t stay there long however for, in 1901, he joined the staff of High

Street Boys’ School where he taught until his retirement in March 1937.

Music was obviously his first love. Before moving to Barry he was accompanist for

two Porth choirs as well as organist and conductor of the choir at Porth Welsh

Congregational Church. In Barry, as well as conducting BMVC, he formed and directed the

Barry Harmonic Society (mixed choir) from 1916 until 1928 and had been organist at

Tabernacle Welsh Congregational Church for twelve years until his death. In his many years

at High Street School he instilled a love of music into many of his pupils, one of whom was

later to be the choir’s conductor for almost as long as DJ himself.

A tribute to DJ in the Barry & District News ended with this extract from In the sweet

by-and-by — the test piece from the Choir’s first competition success in 1903 and a regular

concert number for many years afterwards.

So goodbye dearest friend for a while

We shall join you at last in the sky

And we‘re longing again for your smile

As we meet — in the sweet by-and-by

The untimely death of DJ obviously produced more turmoil in the choir. After considerable

discussion about the merits and, more importantly at this time, the availability of several

local musicians it was decided to ask Madame Muriel Jones, conductor of the Royal Welsh

Ladies Choir, to take up DJ’s baton. Initially she agreed, and attended a practice and

committee meeting in April, but later told the chairman, Fred Dibble, that she would not be

able to take practices until September. She would be too busy travelling with her Ladies

Choir entertaining the troops.

Following the resignation of Arthur Beck as deputy conductor earlier in the year,

Charles Carter, a long-time chorister and soloist, took his place and now accepted the

conductor’s baton. His first concert was at Salem Baptist Church in September and there

were further concerts at local churches later in the year.

Charles Carter 1940-1942

Early in 1941 attendance at practices was giving cause for concern. Many choristers

were now with the forces and the remaining members had additional wartime commitments.

At a meeting in February to discuss this problem it was decided that, as long as there was a

reasonable balance of voices, they would soldier on. The only concerts that year were at the

Plaza Cinema, Cadoxton, in aid of the “Troops Comfort Fund” and at Salem Baptist Church.

In February 1942 there was a concert at Porthcawl Pavilion with “Madame Muriel

Jones, the celebrated Welsh soprano”. Just a week later Charles Carter resigned, informing

the committee that he had accepted a post with the National Fire Service in Cardiff for the

duration of the war. Marjorie Pemberton agreed to be acting conductor until the end of

March.

At the AGM, in April, with only 15 members present, Betty Coulthard was appointed

accompanist and Marjorie Pemberton became conductor.

Majorie Thomas 1942 - 1948

The choir must have been very busy during the summer, giving concerts at Cogan,

Cadoxton, Barry Dock and Barry Island as well as at “ack—ack” sites at Crow Hill and Sully

in the autumn.

A request was received in October from the local branch of the communist party to

sing a few choruses at a meeting to be held at the Tivoli Cinema in support of the Aid to

Russia campaign. The branch sent thirty complimentary tickets and copies of The

Internationale (Red Flag) — probably the only time that it has been included in a BMVC

concert programme.

In December, Marjorie Pemberton received from the choristers a present of a china

dinner service on the occasion of her recent marriage to Harry Thomas, a Sergeant in the

RAF. Unfortunately it was to have a tragic ending when his Lancaster bomber was shot

down over France in the summer of 1944, with the loss of all the crew.

Despite the dwindling numbers the usual local charity concerts continued to be given.

In the summer months there were performances at Penarth Marina in support of the local

council’s “Holidays at Home” entertainment programme.

A more ambitious event was a celebrity concert at the Theatre Royal in November

1944 when just 27 choristers were “competing” with well- known operatic soloists.

However, an impartial critic said “...the choir’s performance was equal to any heard in Barry

for many years”.

In contrast, at a Christmas concert for 100 sailors at the Mission to Seamen, the

soloists were two young choristers, Frank Thompson and Donald Coleman.

There is no report of any concert to mark VE Day, the end of the war in Europe, in

May 1945 but the conductor recollects being woken in the early hours of the following

morning by The Song of the Jolly Roger being sung by some of the younger choristers

underneath her window!

In April 1946 the choir competed at the Bristol Music Festival and gained second

prize. The following year, still only 28 strong, it competed again at Bristol in both the Open

and Male Voice categories, with June Payne as accompanist. The Open competition was lost

by one point but success came in the Male Voice competition with the winning of the John

Fisher Shield.

At a committee meeting later in the year it was decided to present June Payne with a

cheque for 2 guineas, in recognition of her services during the previous year. Marjorie

Thomas was, at her own request, presented with a puppy instead of her usual honorarium of

5 guineas.

In the autumn of 1947 concerts were given at Holton Road Baptist Church and Barry

Island Presbyterian Church, but these were to be the last under Marjorie Thomas’s baton as,

in January 1948, she resigned.

Majorie Thomas and June Payne with the Fisher Shield 1947

Marjorie Thomas had been the mainstay of the choir throughout the dark days of war

and the post-war austerity period. She recruited many young members and, as previously

mentioned, regained some of the success of the early years, albeit with considerably reduced

numbers.

However her bread and butter job was as a civil servant with the Ministry of National

Insurance in Cardiff where she had recently gained promotion. Unfortunately this meant

moving to Bristol.

So Marjorie, in the words of Dylan Thomas, had to:

Say goodbye - but, just for now

As in 1940, the committee looked about for another conductor. The relative merits of various

people were considered and soundings taken. Following this it was decided to ask Glyn

Martin, organist at Tabernacle Welsh Congregational Church and well respected in local

musical circles, to be the new conductor.

Glyn Martin 1948- 1952.

His first task was to prepare for the next Bristol Music Festival in March. These

efforts were rewarded when the choir gained first place against ten others and so retained the

Fisher Shield.

The usual church concerts were held during the year as well as one in the Parade

Gardens Pavilion. There the choir was supported by Joyce Adams (soprano), Eurfron

Williams (contralto) with three chorister soloists — Donald Coleman (tenor), Bryn Watkins

(baritone) and Frank Thomson (bass). “Bert Thomas also caused much laughter with

humorous monologues”.

In 1949 the choir competed at Lydney in August, with their new accompanist, Mrs.

Gould, but had to be content with second place.

Next year concerts were given at local Anglican, Baptist, Catholic and Presbyterian

churches; the choir was then obviously quite impartial in its religious affiliation — as it is

now.

The following year, for the Festival of Britain, a national choral competition was

organised with the winners to sing at the new Festival Hall, London. The choir gained the

right to enter the regional finals by winning first prize at the Kingswood, Bristol competition

the previous November but could not manage to repeat this success in the finals at Bath in

March.

In 1952 there were several local concerts including one at Bindles Ballroom in aid if

the Lynmouth Flood Disaster Fund. The highlight of the year was in July when the choir

made another broadcast.

Glyn Martin with the J.Fisher Shield 1948.

However, the minutes of committee meetings that year indicate, by the large number

of persistent absences from practices, that all was not well. Matters came to a head in

September when both Glyn Martin and Mrs. Gould tendered their resignations.

The Tusler Era.

Following an extraordinary general meeting, in October 1952, it was decided by a

ballot of the members, after some discussion about the relative merits of several people, to

invite Leslie Tusler to take over the leadership of the choir.

Leslie Tusler was very well known in Barry as a gifted musician and linguist. His

early education was at High Street School where he came under the influence of the choir’s

two founders. He started piano lessons when he was seven and at the age of fourteen, by then

a pupil at Barry County School, he was asked by the legendary W.M.Williams to be the

accompanist of his Romilly Boys Choir. After graduating from University College, Cardiff,

in 1931, with an honours degree in English, French, German and Latin, he returned to the

County School as a modern language teacher. Here he stayed, apart from war service in the

Reconnaissance Corps from 194 1—45, until he was appointed headmaster of the newly

created Romilly Secondary Modern School in 1949. Outside school hours his leisure time

was mainly involved with music. He became organist and choirmaster at St. Paul’s Church

in 1937, gained his L.R.A.M. in 1939 and, on returning from the army, took over as organist

and choirmaster at All Saints’ Church.

At the AGM, held on St. David’s Day 1953, Jim Humphreys was re-elected chairman

and a young chorister by the name of Peter Williams was voted on to the social committee.

Joyce Dibble, the daughter-in-law of Fred Dibble, chairman from 1939—1947, was

appointed accompanist.

Leslie Tusler

One of the first things the new conductor did was to produce a magazine — “Vox”.

The first issue was in January and the second, of which one copy survives, came out a few

months later. It makes very interesting reading; especially an article about new songs being

introduced :- The Fighting Téméraire, Go lovely rose and Si hei lwli mabi. Nearly fifty

years on these have now reappeared in the repertoire.

The first concert with the new conductor and accompanist was in April at Tabernacle

Church with the famous BBC organist Sandy Macpherson. The choir’s contribution included

three new items :- An Eriskay love lilt, Bizet’s Serenade and Schubert’s setting of Psalm 23,

which have since made frequent appearances in the choir’s programmes.

In the early Fifties concerts were given for various charitable causes at churches and

hospitals in the district and, for a while, numbers increased. However by the mid-Fifties the

introduction of television sets into many homes and the loss, albeit temporarily, of the

younger members through National Service, saw a reversal of the choir’s fortunes. The low

point came towards the end of the decade when there were fewer than twenty active

members but, at an emergency meeting held in the conductor’s house, the choir, as in 1941,

decided to soldier on.

Despite the dwindling numbers, in 1957 there was an audience of 800 at a celebrity

concert in the Memorial Hall; the accompanist was the recently appointed Russell Evans,

regular accompanist until 1973. The following year saw another celebrity concert at the same

venue but this time the choir shared the stage with the Barry Ladies Choir. In 1959 came the

first visit to Oxford, a Music Festival organised by Morris Motors. Combined concerts with

the Cambrian Gleemen from Tonypandy in the following years appear to have been the only

notable events.

By the early Sixties morale had improved and, at a dinner to celebrate the choir’s

diamond jubilee in December 1962, the conductor was presented with a silver baton on his

tenth anniversary; a presentation was also made to Lew Higgins — a member for 50 years.

In a short speech the new President, Gareth Howe, said how proud he was to be elected.

Next year saw the choir competing at the Cheltenham Festival in May and singing in

the ruins of Coventry Cathedral in September. The only event of note in the next few years

was a concert in Cardiff in September 1965 when the combined choirs of 400 voices were

conducted by Mansel Thomas.

The mid-Sixties saw the choir breaking new ground with its first foreign visit, in

October, to Barry’s twin town of Fécamp, Normandy. The coach trip via the Southampton —

Le Havre ferry was the preferred means of travel.. .cost £7.lOs. A programme of secular

music in the local cinema included songs in Welsh, English and French; soloists were Gareth

Howe, Eric Nugent and Roy CIemo with Margaret Hughes beginning a long relationship

with the choir as soprano soloist.

An “At Home” in November was marked by the presentation of clocks to Jeff Clarke

and Dennis Blake after serving for many years as secretary and treasurer respectively.

Following the visit to France, a letter was received from Herbert King, Bürgermeister

of Rheinfelden, twin town of Fécamp. A warm invitation was extended to the choir to forge

links with the choristers of this small German town. No time was wasted. A flurry of letters

confirmed Barry’s inaugural visit in the autumn of I 967.

This prospective overseas visit produced a surge of interest resulting in the recruitment

of 16 new members by the middle of the year, bringing the choir’s strength almost up to the

60 mark.

1967 was a landmark year for two reasons. One was the visit to Rheinfelden, which

established the friendship between the choirs, and also between individuals, which has lasted

until the present day. The other was the move to Holy Trinity Church Hall, its present home,

following disagreement with the YMCA about the practice room rental.

For the visit to Rheinfelden at the end of September, a large party of more than sixty

choristers, wives and supporters, together with the Mayor of Barry and other civic

dignitaries, travelled in a chartered plane from Rhoose to Basle, Switzerland. At the airport

they were met by their German hosts and taken by coach across the border to Rheinfelden

where they were greeted by Bürgermeister Herbert King and the town band.

The first concert was held in the Terminus Hotel, across the Rhine in Switzerland. The

choir of about 40 voices, with the same soloists as in Fécamp the previous year, sang music

from six countries. The programme included three songs of unrequited love from Wales,

Germany and Russia, as well as a setting of Goethe’s poem Uber allen Gipfeln ist Ruh. This

was a composition by the choir’s young secretary, Douglas Baxter, who had joined a few

years earlier — an émigré from lpswich, England.

The following evening there was a concert of sacred music at St. Josef’s Church in

Rheinfelden, where, from the Badische Zeitung, “the voice of soprano soloist Margaret

Hughes can only be described as without blemish”,

On the choir’s return, there was prolonged correspondence in the local press about the

pros and cons of having an official town twinning with Rheinfelden. The pros eventually

won the argument and the choir is justifiably proud that it was responsible for initiating the

twinning.

Margaret Hughes and choristers at Rheinfelden 1967.

In August 1968 the National Eisteddfod was held in Barry. The choir together with

Morriston Orpheus and Cwmbach choirs and the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra,

conducted by Charles Groves, gave a performance of Cherubini ‘s Requiem.

September saw another visit to Fécamp; this time a much larger party required two

coaches to take them. The journey was not without incident. First of all, due to a

misunderstanding over similar names, the mother—in—law of the recently married secretary

was left behind (many think the choir’s transport manager had been bribed !!). Then a wheel

almost fell off one of the coaches; the delay in fixing it meant that they missed the boat and

arrived in Fécamp rather late.

The following day there was a concert in the Municipal Theatre. On Sunday, after a

visit to the Benedictine factory in the morning and a long civic luncheon, there was a final

concert of sacred music in the Abbey where the main work was Cherubini ‘s Requiem.

Whitsun, 1969, was the occasion of the first visit of the United Male Choirs from

Rheinfelden. The 66-strong choir, with conductor Roland Brombach and over 40 supporters,

travelled by train, coach and plane for their short stay. They gave a concert in the Memorial

Hall on Saturday evening finishing with the singing of Heimat by the German and Welsh

choirs — something that has become a ritual event.

At the close of a big party at Bindles Ballroom on Sunday evening, chairman Jim

Humphreys presented a silver rose-bowl to the Rheinfelden choirs inscribed “Freundschaft

durch Musik” — Friendship through Music — a motto symbolising the friendship between

the two choirs. A presentation was also made to Basil Lewis to mark 40 years as a chorister.

The success of the Rheinfelden visit was marred by the death, in October, of Jim

Humphreys. Jim had been a member since the early Forties and chairman since 1952. Jeff

Clarke, who had been publicity officer for some years, became the new chairman.

The major event of 1970 was the winning of the Blue Riband Trophy at Chester Music

Festival for the best overall performance in all sections. Douglas Baxter was awarded the

first Prize for music composition with a piece called Theme and Variations for Piano which

was played in the all- winners concert by Gerald Johns.

Winners of the ‘Blue Riband Trophy’ City of ChesterMusic Festival 1970.

In January the following year the choir made its first commercial recording, an L.P.

produced by Eos, at St.Paul’s Church.

The month of May must have been a very busy time for everyone. A competition at

Chester Festival in the middle of the month, with first prize in the male voice section, was

followed two weeks later by another visit from the Rheinfeldens. This time 120 people came

on a chartered flight to Cardiff Airport. The party arrived on Thursday evening, visiting Cefn

On Park and Cardiff Civic Centre on Friday. The choir gave two concerts, at the Memorial

Hall and St.Paul’s Church, and returned to Germany, probably rather exhausted, on Monday.

1972 was another busy year. — In April “well over 400 people attended a dance at

Bindles. . .making a handsome profit to augment choir funds”. In May, competition time

again, but this year in Wales.

At the Sir David James Eisteddfod, at Pontrhydfendigaid, Cardiganshire, the first prize

of £600 was won with The Viking Song and I got a robe.

L to R B. Rowlands( accompanist) Cllr C.T. Holmes (Vice President) L.Clarke ( Chairman) R.Howell (Vice President)

Les Tusler (conductor) B.A. Lobley (Vice President) Doug Baxter (secretary)

Winners of the ‘Rhys Thomas James challenge trophy’ at the

Sir David James Eisteddfod, Pontrhydfendigaid 1972.

In September came another visit to Rheinfelden, with two chartered planes leaving

Cardiff Airport with a 72-strong choir and over 60 supporters. They were received with great

enthusiasm in Germany, giving three concerts with soloists Margaret Hughes and Patricia

Bartley and accompanists Russell Evans and Joan Bentham.

The first concert was an open-air performance in the Schlosspark, Säckingen (a spa

town on the Rhine, up-river from Rheinfelden). Unfortunately the heavens opened on the

proceedings, but the choir gave an enthusiastic hour—long performance with the fine

baritone voice of the soloist in Dames, Dennis Blake, being particularly noted in the

Badische Zeitung.

The other concerts in Rheinfelden, at the Terminus Hotel, over the river in

Switzerland, and St.Josefskirche, back in Germany, were received with great acclaim and

glowing press coverage. The trip ended with a visit to the Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen,

followed by a social get-together on Monday evening before making the return journey to

Wales the following day.

In October, the choir celebrated its 70th anniversary with a concert at the Memorial

Hall, where the soloists, Margaret Hughes and Patricia Bartley, were joined on the stage by

the young operatic tenor John Wakefield. At this concert the Scottish songs by the Barry

composer Grace Williams, daughter of W.M.Williarns, and commissioned by the choir, were

given their first performance. In November there was a grand celebration dinner with civic

guests and a small group from Rheinfelden including choir president Ernst Häkanshon.

In 1973 the choir again competed at Pontrhydfendigaid, this time having to be content

with second prize. Later in the year visits were made across the Severn to give highly

acclaimed concerts in Reading and Felixstowe.

The following year Russell Evans, principal accompanist for 16 years, decided,

because of other commitments, to sever his ties with the choir. His long service was recorded

by a presentation made at the annual dance in April. Next month, another visit to

Pontrhydfendigaid — Barry coming home with the first prize of £600. The choir returned

there almost every year until 1988, but never again managed better than second.

In September came another blow with the sudden death of 55 year- old chairman, Jeff

Clarke, who had been a long serving chorister, secretary and publicity officer before

becoming chairman in 1970. Cliff Wakeham took over as acting chairman until the AGM in

January 1975 when John Jones was elected.

Later that month, 85 choristers visited the Royal Albert Hall to take part in the Male

Voice Festival of 1000 voices for the first time. At the annual concert in October, sharing the

stage with the Rogerstone Brass Band, the recently appointed deputy conductor, Douglas

Baxter, took over the baton for part of the evening’s performance.

In June the choir were invited to record a programme entitled ‘Musket, Fife and

Drums’ where they performed various songs from the war time years.

B.M.V.C. recording ‘Musket,Fifes and Drums’ at Harlech T.V. Studio.

Another high point of 1975, in July, was the first visit to the International Eisteddfod

at Llangollen, achieving a creditable 6th place from 15 competing choirs. Later in the year

came the first visit to Oxford at the invitation of the Oxford Welsh Exiles The principal guest

at the concert was the vice-chancellor of Oxford University, Barrian J.J.Habakkuk.

Next year saw another visit to Llangollen, this time getting 3rd prize and a special

mention from the adjudicators — the only UK choir to sing the test piece Dana Dana, by the

Hungarian composer Lajos Bardos, in its original language.

Llangollen International Eisteddfod. 3rd

prize certificate.

A trip to Guernsey, arranged by former chorister Jack Michael, was the highpoint of

1977 when, in March, a 50-strong party flew from Cardiff Airport for a three-day visit with

two concerts.

Arriving in Guernsey – March 1977.

The visit of the Varde Choir from Aalesund, Norway later that year resulted from a

wartime romance. In 1943 a Norwegian ship was berthed for repairs in Barry Docks. A

chance meeting between the ship’s radio officer, Peter Tunheim, and a pretty 18 year-old

Barry girl, Dilys Fifield, blossomed into romance. After the war they got married and settled

in Norway. During a visit to Barry in 1975 the couple came to a choir practice night and

Peter, who was a keen chorister, thought a musical link should be established. So it was that

three years later the Varde Choir came on a short three—day trip ending with an invitation to

visit Aalesund.

Obviously no time was wasted in making arrangements for a five- day trip in May

1979. The visit was planned to coincide with Norway’s National Day on 17th May when

many patriotic Norwegians don their national dress. Not to be outdone, four Barry wives also

sported Welsh dresses, complete with tall black hats, wearing this “uniform” on the outward

and return flights. Several concerts were given with the Varde Choir and the Aalesund

Orchestra with Joan Bentham and Marjorie Collier at the piano.

Leaving for Aalesund – May 1979.

Joan Bentham took over as principal accompanist when Russell Evans left in 1974 and

Marjorie had just returned to the fold. In her former association with the choir she was

Marjorie Thomas née Pemberton — the young lady who carried the choir through the war.

Now having returned to Barry and, after a spell as conductor of Barry Ladies’ Choir, she

turned the clock back 40 years to become principal accompanist again.

1980 was marked by another visit to Rheinfelden. This followed the same format as

previously and also celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Eintracht choir. ,

The same year there was an invitation to sing in Swanage, Dorset which came about

due to chorister Terry Jones’s friendship with some business people there. This was to be a

regular fixture for some years, eventually growing into a week-end stay including two

concerts.

The choir’s 80th anniversary, in 1982, was marked by a formal luncheon at the

Memorial Hall and was also the occasion for a further return visit by Männerchor Eintracht.

At the luncheon a magnificent three— tier birthday cake, made by John Jones’s wife Muriel,

was cut by the longest-serving chorister, Dennis Blake, a member since 1949.

B.M.V.C. 80th

anniversary cake 1982.

Next year was rather quiet, with no foreign guests, but in 1984 the Varde choir made

its second visit. At the Memorial Hall concert the Norwegian choir were joined by Barry for

the final number, Grieg’s stirring setting of the historic poem Landkjending.

At the AGM, in January 1985, Leslie Tusler gave notice that he would be laying down

the baton at the end of the year after 33 years in charge. Leslie had taken over when the

choir’s fortunes were at a very low ebb; he had built up both the strength of the choir and its

musicality, as witnessed by the many competition successes. He had also inaugurated foreign

visits resulting in long-lasting friendships, in particular the ongoing relationship with Barry’s

twin town of Rheinfelden. His other legacy was his talent as a music arranger for male

voices. Over the years he made about thirty arrangements of songs from many countries and

at least one of these is usually included in a BMVC concert programme.

Previously the resignation of a conductor took effect immediately. This time however

it would be almost a year before a new conductor would be required and standing in the

wings was deputy conductor, Douglas Baxter.

At a farewell dinner in December, a porcelain figurine was presented to the retiring

conductor. Roy Bohana, musical director of the Welsh Arts Council, in praising Tusler’s

influence on the musical life of the town, referred to his association with the Barry Concerts

Committee which was instrumental in bringing world—renowned musicians to perform in

the Memorial Hall.

Modern Times

Douglas Baxter is a native of Ipswich where he received his early musical education.

Later he studied modern languages at Nottingham University, graduating in French and

German. In 1962 he joined the staff of Barry Girls’ Grammar School and two years after

joined the choir. He was secretary from 1966 until appointed deputy conductor in 1974. He

had also been conductor of Barry Choral Society since 1976.

Douglas Baxter.

At about this time there was also a change of accompanist. Marjorie Collier decided to

say goodbye, once more, and Steven Burges, a professional pianist, began his long

association with the choir.

May 1987 saw the first visit of the Chamber Singers from Fredonia College, New

York State University. This was part of’ a UK tour and the concert given by 26 young

singers, at Porthkerry Road Methodist Church, was enthusiastically received. Further tours

were made in 1990 and 1993.

A few days later there was another visit to Rheinfelden, twenty years after the first

trip. The week-end programme was similar to previous ones except the main concert was

held in the new Rathaus (town hall). The soprano soloist on this occasion was the

conductor’s sister Jean Boulter, and the accompanist, Natasha Owen — a recent recruit to the

very musical team. Natasha was a native of Odessa, in Ukraine, who met her seaman

husband, Peter, when his ship was in port. They later married and had recently moved to

Barry.

Richard Stumpf (Mannerchor Eintracht) with Douglas Baxter, Rheinfelden 1987.

Accompanist : Natasha Owen.

In May 1988 came another journey to Pontrhydfendigaid, gaining third prize — this

was to be the last. Later in the month there was a week end in Dorset, with concerts at

Swanage and Blandford. On the Sunday morning the choir joined in the service at the tiny

parish church of Studland, the home of operatic soprano Joanne Moore. She was the soloist

at both the concerts and sang with thcchoir on all future visits.

Next year, in February, after months of planning, saw the first visit to sunny Spain.

This came about because the brother of chairman, John Jones, lived in Fuengirola on the

Costa del Sol and he was able to co-ordinate the concert arrangements.

The first concert, at the tiny Teatro Salón Varietés in Fuengirola, was on 1st March —

St.David’s Day. The varied programme given by the choir, accompanist Natasha Owen and

soloist Margaret Hughes, was an outstanding success; so much so that a repeat performance

with a different programme was given the next night. The following day there was a trip to

the famous caves at Nerja followed by an evening concert at the parish church of San

Salvador.

Soon after returning from Spain there was a combined concert with Barry Choral

Society at the Memorial Hall. The voices of the 120-strong combined choirs blended with

the recently installed Christie theatre organ to give a concert of operatic and oratorio

choruses.

In April, as guests of the Rotary Club of Avalon the choir along with the Millfield

Brass Ensemble presented ‘Welsh Voices and Sounding Brass’ in The Cathedral, Wells.

BMVC in concert in The Cathedral, Wells Saturday 22nd

April 1989.

In May, another visit by the friends from Rheinfelden with their conductor, Monika

Preis and chairman, Richard Stumpf. This time the week-end was marked by a visit to the

Big Pit at Blaenavon where the basses of the Eintracht choir sang their deepest ever notes!

The festivities of the early part of the year were overshadowed in August by the

sudden death of 59-year old chairman, John Jones. He joined the choir in 1967 and, apart

from a break between 1980-84, had been chairman since 1975. John had always been a

tireless worker for the choir and was instrumental in creating the links with the Varde choir

and organising the tour to Spain.

In December came another death, that of Leslie Tusler after a short illness. A

memorial concert was held at Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church in February 1990. The

programme, which was designed as a tribute to Leslie Tusler’s wide-ranging musical skills,

included songs from nine countries with five of his arrangements:

Martini’s Plaisir d’amour; Malashkin’s O could I in song tell my sorrow, The

Coventry Carol and, with Margaret Hughes, Ivor Novello’s Waltz of my Heart and I can give

you the starlight.

Later, in March, there was another visit to Fuengirola with deputy conductor Cyril

Robson in charge and with Gerald Johns as accompanist.

In 1991 it was decided to compete again at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod in

July, but on this occasion without success.

In October a presentation dinner was held in honour of Mel Hancock who had just

resigned after 17 years as secretary.

Next year a new recording was made — A Musical Kaleidoscope — the first to be

released as a cassette.

In May, during another week-end in Dorset, the choir gave a Sunday afternoon concert

at Wimborne Minster. Following this the conductor was approached by Edward Welby. He

had written a light opera about Edward VIII and was seeking a Welsh choir to perform one

of the choruses. This chorus was about the South Wales coal and iron industry during the

depression of the Thirties and the reaction of the King when he visited the area just before

his abdication in 1936 — “Something must be done!”

The song was given its premiere by the choir at the Ebbw Vale Garden Festival in the

summer. Later in the year the unrest in the coal— fields due to the threatened decimation of

the industry made the song topical so it was decided to record the song and add it to A

Musical Kaleidoscope.

May 1993 — to Rheinfelden again, this time with a large civic party as it was the 25th

anniversary of the town twinning. Because of this there were more official functions as well

as the usual concerts. Following arrival of the coach and air parties on Friday evening of the

28th of May, a reception for the guests was held in the Town Hall, Rheinfelden. Saturday

morning began with open air singing on the steps of the Town Hall, followed by the

Twinning Jubilee Celebration. The Jubilee concert in the evening with the choir and soloists

was followed by a social meeting with guests and hosts.

On Sunday there was a wreath laying ceremony at the cemetery followed by a Pentecostal

Service at St Joseph’s Church. Sunday evening’s entertainment was dancing with the ‘TOP

SET Tanz & Showband ‘.

Monday was a free day, an excursion into Switzerland available if desired and a farewell

meeting in the evening at the social centre of the Huls A.G., returning home on Tuesday.

In 1994 it was decided to enter the Malta International Choir Festival. So, in

November, a large party spent an enjoyable fortnight in the Mediterranean sun. Concerts,

with Margaret Hughes again as soloist, were given in two Valetta churches and second prize

was achieved in the male voice competition. ‚

BMVC on stage in the 6th

Malta International Choir Festival..

1995 was a relatively quiet year with no foreign trips or visits from other choirs. The

main event was a week-end away with concerts in Canterbury and Folkestone. The journey

to Canterbury was enlivened when the coach driver went the wrong way on the ring road.

This resulted in the coach ending up in the pedestrian precinct in the town centre and having

to reverse back up some very narrow streets. Later in the year, a visit to South Brent, Devon

included a boat trip on the River Dart — without the coach!

1996 was a very different year. A week-end in Dorset in early May, with concerts in

Swanage and Wimborne Minster was followed at the end of the month by another visit from

the Rheinfelden Choir with conductor Monika Preis and guest accompanist Martina Moritz-

Burger.

In October a large party of choristers and supporters spent a week end in London to

join in another 1000 voice concert.

Next year it was decided to make another recording and this was released, on both CD

and tape, as A Feast of Music. Making the recording was saddened by the death, after a long

illness, of Cyril Robson. Cyril had been a keen chorister for more than 30 years and,

although he had no musical training, was an energetic “after-glow leader” and deputy

conductor since 1987.

In April, another sojourn in the Costa del Sol. This time concerts were given in

Fuengirola, Nerja and Estepona to large and receptive audiences.

Soon after returning from Spain the choir hosted the 40—strong Prague Teachers’

Male Choir for a week-end stay and concert. This visit resulted from Douglas Baxter’s many

trips to Eastern Europe and his particular interest in Czechoslovakia and its music.

In October 1998, a visit from another foreign choir, Mannenkoor “die sevensanghers”

from Holland. They gave a concert at St Helen’s Church and also took part in a sung mass at

St. Michael’s Church.

In June 2000, the choir made its sixth visit to Rheinfelden, as guests of the

Mannerchor Eintracht. The hosts as usual prepared a busy programme for the long weekend

visit, including a major concert held in Burgersaal, a musical contribution to a church service

and to a wreath laying ceremony at the town’s war memorial.

BMVC at the wreath laying ceremony at Rheinfelden’s war memorial.

Following the overseas visit, on Saturday 8th

of July the choir was on its travels again

when it went to Salisbury to take part in a charity gala concert in aid of Hope and Homes for

Children, a charity that offers a family a future for young victims of war or disaster. The

setting was the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral before an audience of just over one

thousand. Other participants included the Band of the Honourable Artillery Company, The

Ringwood Pipe Band and the Stagecoach Theatre Arts Choir from Salisbury.

2001 proved to be just as busy. Following the choir’s 99th Annual concert held in

Windsor Road United Reform Church on June 16th, the choir took part in “ The Centenary

Celebration “ of the Barry Dock Lifeboat Station. This was held on the waterfront, Barry on

23rd and 24th

of June, the programme was entitled “The Songs of the Sea and

“Thanksgiving Service “. On Friday, October 6th

the choir undertook a concert tour of

South West England”. The finale of the Saturday concert, held in Upton Vale Baptist

Church Torquay was a stirring rendition of “Cwm Rhondda” with the Torbay Brass Band in

front of a very appreciative audience. The following day the choir travelled to South Brent

for an afternoon concert in the village hall..

A century of song ! What would the founding fathers have made of it? Through the

highs and lows, war and peace, Barry Male Voice Choir has survived. International

friendships have blossomed and flourished through that great ambassador – Music.

Long may it continue.

Acknowledgements

The authors are indebted to Mel Hancock for his work over many years as the choir’s

archivist. This history could not have been written were it ‘ not for his many hours of

painstaking research in the compilation of press reports in connection with the early

years of the choir and his diligence in preserving concert programmes and other

memorabilia from later years. Except where stated otherwise all press reports are from

the Barry & District News and its predecessors.

BARRY MALE VOICE CHOIR.

President: Gareth Howe.

Vice Presidents: Dennis Blake, Haydn Burgess, Dennis Clack, Marjorie Collier, Melville

Hancock, Margaret Hughes, Kathleen Humphreys, Muriel Jones, Raymond Jones, Louise

Lane, Joanne Moore, Gordon Mudford, William Parkman, Valerie Robson, Cyril Tudor;

Clifford Wakeham, Albert Williams, Peter Williams.

Chairman: Peter Williams

Secretary: Graham Edwards

Treasurer: Michael Stanley

Financial Secretary ’: Michael Rees

Librarian: Leslie Phillips

Committee: T.Casey, J.Davies, G.Mudford, A.Tudor and M.Hancock (Archivist)

Conductor: Douglas Baxter

Deputy Conductor: Gordon Mudford

Accompanist: Steven Burges

Choristers:-

First Tenors Second Tenors First Bass Second Bass

Tom Casey Charles Cummings Bill Barker Laurence Alder

Paul Cockburn Alan Davies Ken Bennett Haydn Burgess

Graham Edwards Keith Edwards Dennis Blake Roy Collier

David Evans Mel Hancock John Burch Derek Farthing

John Haley Sam Heyes Arthur Davies Alan Fitchett

Bill Haley Jack Moon John Davies Gary Hobbs

Wynn Jones Gordon Mudford Arthur Griffith Maurice Jodrell

Richard Patch Don Surridge Terry Jones Gerald Johns

Peter Williams Brian Thurlow Leslie Phillips Tom Jones

Geoff Smith Graham Lovering

Mike Stanley Gwyn Phillips

Roger Taylor Len Probert

Mike Rees

John Shewring

Albert Tudor

John Waters

John Waud