The testimonies and musical talents of many British members are being demonstrated through the London LDS Choir, which is now preparing for its summer series of concerts.
The choir was founded in the late 1970s at the suggestion of Elder Robert D. Hales, then a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy and president of the England London Mission and now Presiding Bishop. The choir's popularity has been gained in the last three years, under the direction of Enid Hubbard of the Gravesend Ward, Maidstone England Stake.Choir membership is by audition from the Crawley, Hyde Park, Wandsworth, Maidstone, Romford, Staines and St. Albans stakes. The choir has 100 regular members, including husbands and wives and other family teams. Last summer, choir members attended a "master class" workshop conducted at London's Hyde Park Chapel by Tabernacle Choir director Jerold D. Ottley.
Concerts are performed regularly at the Crawley, Wandsworth, Luton, Romford, Maidstone and Hyde Park meetinghouses.
Rehearsals will begin in March for the summer concert series. Members will practice the music in their homes, and, later in the spring, attend intense rehearsals at the Hyde Park Chapel on Saturday afternoons.
Last summer, as part of the Church's 150th anniversary celebrations in the British Isles, the London LDS Choir made a recording of its concert, "Island Heritage." The recording features patriotic sons such as "Rule Britannia" and folk songs from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
"It is very enjoyable being a member of this choir," said Barbara Elvidge, choir president, "which I hope shows through in our performances. We are now thinking of planning a concert tour to visit other areas in Britain as we would like to create a greater awareness of the resources and talents of British saints."
At performances, the program is announced by Roderick O'Regan, who serves as master of ceremonies. The first half of a concert is usually serious, with a humorous musical medley introduced during the second half. Ed Bentham of the Harlow Ward, Romford England Stake, is becoming well-known for his planned practical jokes that are sprung on both the audience and Sister Hubbard during the second half. The choir's accompanist is Joann Warner. Business manager is Ray Kemp.