After being sidelined for 18 months due to COVID protocols, the Millicent Choral Society has resumed public performances. The 15 current members took to the stage of the Millicent Uniting Church Hall on Sunday afternoon to present a Christian choral music celebration.
The MCS had not been seen in public since December 2019 and its return was warmly welcomed by the audience. Lasting two hours, the concert was inspired by the annual “Prom Praise” concerts in the Royal Albert Hall in London, England.
It was a festival of contemporary and traditional Christian music with some audience participation from the 45 present. The performance was originally planned for May 2020 but was cancelled due to the pandemic.
Among the traditional hymns were Old Hundredth, Jerusalem and Glory in the Highest to the tune of Land of Hope and Glory. In all, there were 24 hymns and songs including African/American spirituals and Salvation Army favourites.
As well as conducting the MCS, musical director Mike Bleby also introduced each item and gave a background to its composer and its relevant Christian message. Mr Bleby also designed the promotional poster and concert program.
Meanwhile, the MCS is now working towards a joint concert with the Mount Gambier City Concert Band. It will be presented at 2pm on August 15 at the Millicent War Memorial Civic and Arts Centre.
The two groups last combined for a concert several years ago at this venue.
