Tenby Male Choir performed in St Mary’s Church Pembroke last week to an appreciative audience who praised their singing.

The concert, which was in aid of the church restoration fund and the Royal School of Church Music, was well received.

The choir started with Rachie followed by Shenandoah, which was particularly enjoyed by several American visitors.

The choir then asked the audience to join in whilst they sang ‘Climb Every Mountain’ – compere David Blackmore asked if there was anyone in the church who had not seen the musical ‘The Sound of Music’ and not one hand appeared -so no excuses then!

The first section ended with Hallelujah and African Prayer better known as the National Anthem for South African adopted in 1991.

The soloist spot was taken up by choir member Tom Pearce, who is a Church Warden at St Mary’s, who delighted the audience wth his eloquent rendition of Ose Shalom – Prayer of Peace and the lovely ‘Panis Angelicus’ accompanied by church organist Anna.

In the second section the choir after a deserved rest sang some firm favourites – Llef followed by Let it be Me – made famous by the Everley Brothers and then Working Man.

The musical Les Miserables produced the beautiful song – Bring Him Home which the choir always perform beautifully and to end this second part of the concert the choir delighted the audience with My Grandfather’s Clock.

This time, however, there was nobody from North Yorkshire in the audience, so David Blackmore had to explain the story behind the song.

With the choir taking another well earned rest the solo spot was taken again by Tom Pearce as the scheduled performer was unable to attend. He didn’t let those attending down.

He sang a choir favourite – What Would I do Without my Music – and followed this up with a magical version of ’Moscow Nights’. The audience really appreciated his performance.

In the final section the choir started with – Take me Home – reflecting the coal mining industry in the area. Tenby Male Choir sang this on BBC Wales – Derek Brockway – Weather Man Walking programme, which was recorded for television, when Derek reached Saundersfoot.

The next item on the concert programme was ‘You Raise Me Up’ which some of the audiences have suggested that the version by Josh Groban be mentioned. It certainly is very popular and demonstrates the choirs versatility and professional application to all types of music.

The final songs were Benedictus and popular favourite – An American Trilogy – supported by St Mary’s Church organ, which gave the concert a great ending and left all those that attended going away happy.

One American visited was overheard to say it was the highlight of her week.Tenby Male Choir will be performing in the Giltar Hotel on Tuesday (June 25) at 9 pm; and on Thursday (June 27) at the Lawrenny Arms starting at 7 pm.