I READ of the fears for the future of the Bolton Choral Union and wonder whether they should consider a modern audience.
I attended the recent Victoria Hall fundraising concert. I went to support the future of a wonderful building, fully expecting a rather dull evening. Instead I experienced non-stop entertainment with a huge variety of music performed at a high level.
Our 21st century offers more musical choice than ever in history. We can participate in or listen to music from the early Middle Ages to new offerings. once, there was a huge divide. You might have the music hall for working class then classical for those with "superior" tastes. Today we can, with ease, dip into a huge range of music, each with its won special feel and skills.
I was lucky to sing with Affestside Choir for many years. Apart from friendships made, I stayed because of the huge variety of music sung, from classics through to musicals, folk, jazz and rock.
A building process is required which includes encouraging youngsters to feel that their own tastes are not less different.
Perhaps Bolton Choral Union needs to be a little more adventurous. Even the name conjures up a rather dour image. I wish them luck. Bolton needs their input into the music scene.
David Sharples,
Tarbet Drive,
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