Drybrook and District Male Voice Choir is celebrating its 70th year with a new look.

After the success, earlier in the year of its recruiting drive “Real Men Sing: no experience, no audition, no problem”, the choir is starting, once again, to grow.

Last year, the choir performed at St David’s Hall, Cardiff, for the first time, alongside Monmouth Male Voice choir, Monmouth School for Girls and a full orchestra. It was a packed house and part of the festivities for their 125 anniversary. And a wonderful confidence boost to the choir.

The choir’s concert season this birthday year has focused on building and strengthening links to the local community. They have performed during Forest Activities Festival, at Speech House, and at the Drybrook Methodist Church. Their most recent outing was in the unusual performance space under the Market House, as part of the Newent Community and Wildlife day.

Keen to keep this momentum going, the choir is revamping its look. “The tradition of male voice singing here in the forest is about the quality of the music making, and that’s what we’re focusing on. But, at the same time we have to stay fresh and keep moving in the age of social media,” said Pete Alan, their Musical Director.

“This design is sharp and fresh, and eye-catching. Not that we ever sing sharp, you understand!”

Mike Salmon, the vice chair of the choir, said: “We’re all working hard towards the big 70th Anniversary concert in the autumn. And we’re thrilled to be singing alongside the talented players of the Cinderford Academy Band.” The anniversary concert is scheduled for September 8th at Cinderford Baptist Church, 7:30pm.

Tickets are available from Charles Taylor, Treasurer, 07989 331 189, [email protected].