Being a relative newcomer to barbershop singing I arrived at the 24th Harmony College looking forward to the days ahead and interested to see how every thing fitted together. I had packed a novel in my case in anticipation of all the spare time I would have when not involved in singing. As you can imagine it remained unopened!

Before going to Worcester I had done my best to learn the three college songs from the teach tapes (my wife wished I'd take Kathleen home and leave her there and bemoaned the lack of Caroline's hearing!) As a member of the chorus stream I envisaged spending most of the weekend repetitively going over these songs and I was apprehensive that this might begin to get a tad tiresome. My fears were proved to be unfounded. Every session with Mike Taylor and his team was interesting, challenging and rewarding whether we worked on the college songs or were given instructions in barbershop techniques. It was evident to me from their comments that seasoned college attendees felt the same way. Many had gone primarily to sing in a large choir but also appreciated the gems of wisdom and interpretations of the music that were passed on. Above all else the enthusiasm of the teaching team was infectious.

The pick 'n' mix classes were a good way of providing contrast with the main streams and gave plenty of choice. I attended one class on working with young people and one on basic directing. Both were informative and both enthusiastically lead. The third class was the Dave Steven's recording of 1983. Unfortunately the quality of sound (and possibly my hearing!) made it a struggle to take it all in. The hand out which I have subsequently read has helped clarify it.

Punctuated through all this was the coming and goings of Bill Rashleigh. Whether you listened to him to learn musically or simply be entertained you would not be disappointed!

Upon returning home on Sunday afternoon I had to put my feet up and sleep for several hours. It had never occurred to me that the daily schedule would be so intense. I was very impressed throughout with the organisation of the college and the handling of the large number of people present. It was a real pleasure to spend the weekend in the company of a large body of people united together by their love of singing in harmony. It has given me something to pass on to my school's music department.

Thank you B.A.B.S. and all the people who made me feel so welcome.

Pete Beckram

Peter teaches Maths at "The Blue Coat SchoolComprehensive co-ed School in central Coventry. It has a well-earned reputation for educational standards and paticularly so in music, still wishing to encourage vocal and instrumental competence in support of church music.