On Tuesday 13th March 2018 Toccata Ladies’ Choir competed in the Glasgow Music Festival and won both the Ladies Choir category and were the best choir overall with a clear lead of 3 points. As a result, Toccata were also awarded the Orpheus Trophy which is awarded to the best choir on the night.

The choir opened with The Boatman (Fear a’ bhàta) which is traditional Gaelic air.

The adjudicator said about this “A Lovely poise about your opening unison phrases with a fine blend of voices. The part-singing was very attractive – well centred in pitch and very well balanced. Dynamic shading was musical and shapely and you explored a good, wide range. Rhythms flowed and lilted beautifully, and you created a touchingly wistful atmosphere”

They then followed up with Music Down in My Soul, a rousing gospel praise song inspired by the spiritual Over my Head.

The adjudication notes on this were as follows: “Well done for your assured vocal production and attention to all the musical detail. On the long sustained note on “head” ensure that the vowel shape is exactly matched and lifted to keep the intonation 100% secure. Great rhythmic energy came across in the faster section – you performed with full conviction. Congratulations on your memory work and after all that energy being expended the sopranos gave us a top B!!! “

The adjudicator on the night was Eileen Field

If you want to hear these performances – and more – come and see this award winning choir perform at the Howden Park Centre on 11th and 12th May.