LABBS Convention 2005 and Peterborough Music Festival

Having won the gold medal in 2004 we would normally not be allowed to enter competition the next year. As many of you know, it’s great to win a gold medal but the question always is “What next?” “How do we keep the enthusiasm and maintain the standard?” Well, how lucky were we that 2005 brought not only the National but also an International Competition, so we had something to strive for and another goal to achieve.

Under the expert guidance of our MD, Lynda, and our very experienced Music team plans were put in place for a steady work schedule over the year which included many extra rehearsals and coaching sessions. In addition we all did our bit on the fundraising front which enabled us to take advantage of the skills of Doug Harrington which just added to our performance.

We couldn’t believe how quickly October seemed to come and we were off to Cardiff, determined to give our best. Waiting for the results was excruciating. The White Rosettes had done a brilliant job winning the National Competition and their marks would go forward into the International class, but could we beat them, or any of our other competitors from Holland, Spain and Germany?

Well we did and were thrilled to have attained our highest marks to date. Our thanks go to all who played their part in getting us there.

There was no let-up once we got home as we took part in the Peterborough Music Festival two weeks later. Fortunately our hard work prior to International stood us in good stead but we also had to perform a non barbershop number to display our versatility to the judges, so we polished up an African song as well. Music Festivals are always so very varied and difficult for the judges to compare conventional choirs and barbershop groups but we were judged by an extremely precise and discerning gentleman who gave every competitor a very detailed adjudication. It is very gratifying for us all to hear the precision and performance aspects of Barbershop acknowledged in this arena. This year we only entered the Championship class and, guess what, we won that as well!!

2005 certainly has been a good year for Phoenix and all our hard work and expert tuition has paid off. We now look forward to 2006, new challenges and venues to keep us keen and on our toes.

Mavis Giles - Chairlady