After months of not being able to get together to sing, Macclesfield Male Voice Choir enjoyed their first (socially distanced) rehearsal last weekend, with the much appreciated help of Macclesfield Rugby Club. As far as they know this was one of the very first choir rehearsals anywhere. About half of the choir assembled at Priory Park and after being kitted out with face visors, took their places at pre-allotted, spaced out seats in the grandstand. After so long missing their twice weekly rehearsals, they chose to run through some of their well known pieces, just to get singing together again. Musical Director Robert Owens was well pleased with the sound from his distanced position on the pitch below, though for the singers, the sound of their own voice reflected back behind the visor was an odd experience!
Choir Chairman Harry Newton said 'as this was something of an experiment, we were delighted with the response from our singers. We took all necessary Covid precautions and did a thorough risk assessment, which the Rugby Club approved. We thank them for their help and support on this trial. After post rehearsal feedback, we plan to repeat the exercise soon, before the weather gets too cold to sing outdoors. We really hope that before long we will be allowed to return to indoor rehearsals, so we can commence work on our exciting 2021 repertoire.'