It was with some surprise that, a few months ago, our highly respected Chorus Director, Dale Kynaston (you know him…………..lead singer with Pitch Invasion, Soundcrew etc.) invited me to be his Assistant Chorus Director. I feel that he asked me to take on this role because I usually attend most rehearsals, turn up early, have been Section Leader for a few years, and can read music. Oh! I have also "waved my arms" in front of the Chorus on occasions in the Director's absence. Feeling the need to be better equipped to take on this role, I decided to apply to attend Directors' College - and felt privileged to be awarded a Harmony Foundation Grant to support my attendance.

I have to admit I arrived at the College with trepidation, and armed with a DVD of me directing our Chorus the previous week. However, I have to express my appreciation to other delegates in our small "Directing Skills" teaching group, namely, Franz, Dave, Catrina, Zac, Karen, Jake and Eddie, for their support and encouragement during the weekend, and a particular personal thank you to Rhiannon for all her hard work, advice and patience. Also, I would like to acknowledge the Belles of Three Spires for their warmth and support whilst I attempted to direct them under Rhiannon's guidance.

The other seminars gave us a wealth of opportunities to learn more and share ideas about leadership and management issues, planning rehearsals, developing the Music Team, presentation, song choices, interpretation and many other aspects of being a Chorus Director. As if this wasn't enough, we had the inimitable Royce Ferguson giving regular input throughout the weekend. It was a fascinating experience to see him at work, coaching Directing Techniques, and sharing his ideas about resonant singing.

The result of attendance at Director's College VIII has certainly made me a much more confident, technically skilled and more knowledgeable Assistant Director. The programme has obviously taken many hours of planning and preparation to deliver such a successful event, and I thank everyone involved in the planning and delivery. A final thank you, once again, to the Trustees of the Harmony Foundation for kindly awarding me the Grant.

Peter Hughes Assistant Chorus Director Telford BHC