SOME twenty voices of this Cardiff based choir brought their ministry in music to help mark 350 years of Baptist worship in Upton-upon-Severn.

Performing to a large audience, this was the first event in the new church hall, after an official opening earlier in the day. Acoustically, it was be excellent, every sung word heard with clarity, and resonance of blended and balanced voices projected distinctly.

Choice of songs was perfect for the occasion. An expressive opening Oh, Lord, how majestic is Your name was given beautifully shaded dynamics; Jubilate Deo, by 17th Century German composer Praetorius, which after a bit of practice we all joined in to sing as a four part round, and ultimately a fervent Welsh hymn of praise.

Interspersed were sacred pieces of varying genre: gently harmonious choral songs such as the serene Your Love, a lively interpretation of You are crowned with many crowns, a lovely arrangement of Dear Lord and Father of mankind and several original items from A Shout of Joy composed by Kelvin Thomas, music director and Anne Brown.

Kelvin, possessor of a glorious, rich Welsh voice, sang contrasting solos including Sankey's narrative song The Ninety and Nine, and a nostalgic, but pertinent for today, view of The Old Fashioned Meetings.

Bethan Diaz was the charming soprano soloist in One Church, One Faith, and Esther Leverett accompanied sensitively for this sincere and meaningful choral offering, an uplifting culmination to the day.

JILL HOPKINS.