Dear GCOS Singers,

The excitement and polished performance of theHaydn Creationand the wonderful trip to France with the memorable standing ovation received in St Malo Cathedral seem a long time ago but many more exciting plans are underway for the forthcoming seasons.

 Conductor -As many of you know, Helen is back at home from hospital following an operation. She is on the mend and will continue to support and work behind the scenes but will need to take a'rest'from conducting for the forthcoming term. We are delighted that John Surcombe, who has both vocal and orchestral experience, has agreed to deputise for the Christmas Concerts. Helen wishes to thank GCOS for the beautiful flowers and for the many personal messages and cards, which have been really appreciated.

 Orchestral Trainer -After seven years, Jean Owen, our orchestral trainer, has submitted her resignation and we would like to take this opportunity to thank Jean for her work and musical contribution to the orchestra. We are really pleased to welcome Michael Sullivan, Head of Strings at the Schools' Music Service, who will undertake this role in partnership with John for the Christmas concerts. Rachel Wright, Head of Vocal Studies, will also be conducting the Music Centre Choirs who have once again agreed to be part of our concerts. We have been fortunate in securing the commitment of this strong team; we know that choir members will give them your full support.

 Next Concert -The first concert of the forthcoming academic season will be on October 15^th2011at St James. GCOS will be singing a 20 minute slot in a choirs' concert arranged by Christine Anthony to raise money for Bowel Cancer Awareness. James Henderson has agreed to provide organ accompaniment. The repertoire will include:

Vaughan Williams - Let all the world in every corner sing

Ireland - Greater Love Hath no Man

Shaw - With a voice of singing

Details of the May concert to follow.

 Subscriptions -for all the rehearsals and concerts this academic year are:

£79 - Adult                             Over 65 - £60                               Students in full time education: Free

Please bring your subscription with cheques made payable to GCOS to the first rehearsal, or send it to Charles Tracy, Membership Secretary, Claverton House, Sausmarez Road, St Martin, GY4 6SG.

 Founder Member -It has saddened us to hear of the death of Madeleine Sims. Many of you will know that Madeleine was the last of the surviving founder members of GCOS who would have been 100 this October. She was a loyal supporter who attended our concert last year when she was 98.

 Carnegie Hall - USA- Seventeen members from the choir will be representing GCOS at the premiere performance of The Peacemakers by Karl Jenkins, in January 2012

 Coffee -volunteers are needed to serve refreshments in the break. This could be done on a rota basis. Please speak with Penny if you are willing to help.

 Website-www.guernsey-choral.org. Penny has updated the website where further details about the Society can be found. If anyone is interested in helping with the site or has any ideas, which would be most welcome, please speak with Penny.

 Music -Please let Helen know by if you need copies ordered asap. Tel 242030 or emailmgrand@cwgsy.netor return the attached reply slip to me. Please make cheques payable to GCOS for the scores (separate from your subscription cheque, please).

We are both looking forward to the year ahead and hope to see you onSeptember 13that St Sampson's School. Enjoy the rest of the summer.

Best wishes,

Helen and Penny

 Conductor:Helen Grand, 'Shamba', La Turquie, Grande Rue, Vale, Guernsey, GY3 5EA Tel: 242030.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MUSIC ORDER

Name……………………………...