Worcestershire Arts Partnership: 2014 - World War One Trench Songs Tribute

Tuesday 1 July 2014

2014 - World War One Trench Songs Tribute

Looking for a new activity this summer? Join a group which is re-connecting with the experience of the ordinary soldiers by learning and singing the songs of the First World War.

Local choir director William Coleman is calling for volunteers to join him in singing the songs as sung by the men in the trenches. He is looking for relatively able-bodied men of any age to join up and sing the songs which gave courage to the troops under fire, kept up flagging spirits on the march and entertained the regiment when behind the lines too.

"The well-loved songs like 'It's a long way to Tipperary' and 'Pack up your troubles in your own kit bag' are just the tip of the iceberg," says William. "The beauty of it is that one needs absolutely no experience of singing to join in, although it is useful if you do. What matters is a willingness to learn the songs and enter the spirit of it for a concert of First World War poetry and music on October 4th at 2pm being organised by the Friends of the Dymock Poets. Many of the tunes are still well known, as they tend to come from hymns and music hall songs, but with some very inventive and pithy words coming from the experience of war, " says William. "Singing the songs is a form of tribute to the men of that generation and also a way of bringing their ordeal and bravery into our lives - however, only if YOU volunteer. The Trench Songs NEED YOU!" Remember, you need have no experience of singing whatsoever!

Rehearsals will be on Monday evenings starting July 14th from 7.30 - 8.45. For further information see www.wmcoleman.org.uk To sign up email colemanjenkins@btinternet.com

Please follow link to see on my website - http://www.wmcoleman.org.uk/Animateur.html