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Colin Beniston writes April 7th, 2005 |
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At our monthly reunion last Tuesday (April 5th, 2005) I was informed about your website and saw copies from same. Today I have had chance to go on line and view the site in more detail and I am very impressed and congratulate you on the photographs and detail. With regard to the staff photo I believe the teacher between Harold Simpson and Joe Hawksby is Alf Joseph who taught us English. I remember he wore a large heavy signet ring on his right hand and was very adept at rapping us on the head with it if he spotted any errors, etc., as he walked around the class looking over our shoulders. On the front row far right: I believe this was 'Eric' Coates. He was a good pianist and accompanied the choir whilst Harold Simpson conducted. In 1975 I became a guest member of Rolls Royce Male Voice Choir and found that Harold Simpson was singing in the bass section. I left in 1981 to join the Police Choir but I know Harold remained with R.R. until he was in his eighties. Thanks for bringing back memories of happy school days and friends. [See Choir picture with Colin and Harold Simpson] Additional memories about Harold Simpson April 28, 2005: DURING MY YEARS 1947-52 I do not recall anyone receiving tuition for any musical instruments or specific lessons on reading music, although I am sure we did sing some harmony. One memory associated with the choir which stands out for me, was the occasion when we sang with the famous basso profundo, Norman Allin. In his prime he had been one of Britain’s outstanding operatic and solo performers, with many fine recordings to his name (I have one or two ). At the time of our concert he was approaching the end of his career, but was still a wonderful singer. So Harold Simpson and others did well to engage him ( Brian Skeldon has a copy of the photo from the D.E.T. showing the choir on stage at the above concert. And we now have that picture - Ed.) Another event I recall was when my then form master, Dennis Chapman - who had a glorious baritone voice, sang two solos. One I remember was The Gay Highway which for many years was a popular baritone solo. It still remains a good song but in this day and age one hesitates to use the term 'Gay' !! I feel sure that in about 1950 the senior members of the choir (i.e. 1945/46 intake) made a 7" 45 rpm record with H.S. conducting. I wonder if any of these are still in existence! I believe this was made following their success in a local music festival. I have no recollection of being taught by Harold other than for music, so have no amusing tales to relate, but along with others he certainly helped me to develop a great love of singing. |
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