THE WARRINGTON LIGHT OPERA SOCIETY CD!
On October 15th 2006 Warrington Light Opera together with Manchester Opera Orchestra began a day's recording of it's first ever CD. A recording of various carol arrangements by WLO'S Musical Director, Peter Henry.
The creating of a CD:
Gathering positive comments on Peter's musical arrangements had become commonplace. The singers appreciated them, although the 'altos often took him to task over their 'unsingable' line, the orchestra looked forward each year to playing something other than the predictable and our audience at the Parr Hall concert grew to expect a different angle on the traditional carol.
A chance remark over a musical lunch launched the idea of a recording. Kay knew that she could produce the orchestra players whilst Derek checked copyright and became Studio Manager for the recording day. The venue was checked and booked by Glynis and a team of committee members. John was engaged as sound engineer, Peter chose the carols and we were away!
Of course, extra rehearsals were needed, especially as the carols were unfamiliar to our newer members (the rest of us were grateful for them too!) Many of us were caught in quieter moments wistfully humming our lline whilst gardening or driving. Carols in summer seemed quite bizarre.
And what a happy and friendly day October 15th was! John and Alison had set up the venue, the orchestra rehearsed from 10am and recording began about noon. We found untapped discipline with music folders and stifled the occasional cough. We enjoyed chatting between sessions and were happily exhausted when we finished at 5pm.
For some this was only the beginning. Bob had completed the art-work for the cover and Alison the typing for the CD booklet but presenting it in the correct format for the production people was another story. Mike a friend of Myra's, came to the rescue and his desktop publishing skills have ensured a stylish booklet to accompany our efforts.
So now all we have to do is await their arrival.
If you are reading this after you have heard the arrangements it will mean we met our deadline. Should you be interested in using Peter's arrangements, we hope to have them available in the Spring of 2007.
