Just Cromer article reminisces on the Society’s last 90 years

The April edition of Just Cromer has an article “Society’s in tune for 90 years” which tells something of the history of the choir since it was formed in 1933. It includes the following personal reflections from two members:

Jill Emms (1979 – present)

My first memories of group singing were as a 5 year old when the whole school gathered on a Friday afternoon to sing national and folk songs together. From then onwards l always belonged to a choir: church, college, local and in the various schools  where l taught. When l moved to Norfolk it was inevitable that l would join the nearest choral society which happened to be SCCS  and l have been there ever since, with one or two breaks for health reasons. Particular highlights during the 40 odd years have been Mahler’s Eighth Symphony in Bury St. Edmunds- before it had Cathedral status although being seated near the drums didn’t do my ears any favours. Then there was a performance of Verdi’s Requiem in Nidda, where we joined with their choir for a really memorable performance. There was also an exciting rendering of Mendelssohn’s Elijah. More recently we have branched out into some exciting unaccompanied work and pieces by modern composers, which have been challenging. I cannot imagine a life without singing and over the years l have made some wonderful friendships with like minded people. Come and hear us and come and join us.

 Bob Cumber (1998 – present)

 I have been singing with the choir for about 25 years!! In that time it has been a tremendous joy to have sung with some very gifted musical directors alongside so many lovely people. We have performed most of the major works (from Bach Mass in B minor to Elgar Dream of Gerontius),  been on several tours to Germany and France, and performed in some amazing places locally including Norwich Cathedral although our main venues have been the two parish churches of Cromer and Sheringham.

I had the privilege of being a Trustee for a period culminating with several years as Chairman. During that time, in 2014,  we were able to commission the renowned local composer, Patrick Hawes, to write a major choral work to commemorate  the centenary of the Great War. The result was Eventide (in memoriam Edith Cavell) which we performed alongside the English Chamber Orchestra with soloist Elin Manahan Thomas – definitely a magnificent highlight. Subsequently another local composer, Richard Allain, reworked his Vespers Songs of the Sea especially for us. Another great performance with the London Mozart Players. 

Over the years it has also been really enjoyable to work alongside youth choirs to perform such works as Benjamin Britten’s St Nicolas and John Rutter’s Mass of the Children.

Emerald Anniversary Concert

Our 90th Anniversary concert will take place in Cromer Parish Church on Saturday 29th April 2023 at 7:00 pm. This concert will look back at some important commissions over the years as well as including new works written especially for the occasion. We look forward to welcoming you. Full details and ticket booking details can be found here

Read the full article here: