Sunday the 15th June was designated as Music Sunday and ringers and singers were busy during the day. Our first ringing was for the morning service, and as usual, three ringers left the ringing room early for their next duty – singing in the choir.
After the service we were delighted to welcome Dane and Lorena Seeley, on holiday from Arizona. Dane’s ancestors lived in Great Gransden during the 14th century and he was very interested in seeing the church. Having previously viewed our videos on YouTube he and Lorena were keen to visit the tower and we enjoyed showing them the clock and bells. Dane explained that they had signed up for a bell ringing lesson at St Clements church in Cambridge before they continue their holiday on a tour of the UK.
In the evening we held a Come and Sing service of evensong to celebrate Music Sunday. This is the third such event organised by tower captain and choir director, Sheila George. Choristers from churches in the area, and from the congregations are invited to take part. Several came from St Neots with organist Lloyd Barnet, and we all met at 4.00pm for a rehearsal.
Sheila practised us in all the music, some of which required some swift sight reading, but we all supported each other and the four-part ensemble created a wonderful sound. This was followed by tea and cake. In the meantime, the ringers returned to ring for the service which started at six o’clock.
The singing went without a hitch and during the prayers our rector, Rev Rachel Blanchflower included thanks for all musicians, and also included bell ringers for their contribution to the life of the church and community.
After the service we all enjoyed further refreshments and reflected on a very enjoyable afternoon and evening.
Many thanks to our ringers who made sure we were able to ring all six bells on each occasion, and to Sheila George for organising the ringing and especially the singing. Thanks also to Lloyd, our organist.
Some comments received:
That was such fun. Thanks to everyone for sharing their amazing musicality. NS
Lovely afternoon singing with you all. Thanks to everyone…and especially to Sheila for directing and coordinating and to Lloyd for playing (the organ). TH
…It was lovely to take part and the music sounded quite inspiring. JD
Thank you – singing and cake wonderful. JW
Great Gransden Bell Ringers 