Happy New Year!

The title gives it away...happy new year one and all. Two bits of information for you as we enter 2009: (1) My Mum received her copy of what are they doing? and, overlooking a brief listening of Peter Kay's Christmas song (more catchy than Tormis' little ditties), it has been on the ghetto blaster ever since; (2) Further to a blog post of yonks ago, I passed by Ecclefechan the other day. It is somewhere in Scotland, just off the road from Manchester. I must admit I can't tell you exactly where as I was fast asleep, awoken only by a live version of Fear of the Dark (a nice wee riff for all you rock fans) just in time to see a sign for Ecclefechan. Well, that's cleared that one up then.

Hope you all enjoy your merriment this evening. Tune in on Wednesday/Thursday for more from Rudsaambee-land - it's our yearly meeting so cue lots of quotable comments. Well worth checking out I should think.

All the best for 2009.

CSW

Wassailing in the end

A jolly and relaxing sing was had in Black Medicine this evening. Ten of us managed to get there (once Helen arrived) and sing, well, whatever we fancied. The sense of not having to fulfill any expectations was rather nice and the audience - a few handfuls of regulars and staff, including one very enthusiastic young fan - seemed very pleased. Much appreciated also was the neverending stream of mulled wine and mince pies. So we really were wassailing!

Thank goodness that's over. Roll on Christmas Eve, by which time everything should have settled down...

Merry Christmas/Yule/Other Things everyone, we'll see you in the new year!

Rudsambee on tour...at least as far as Longformacus

Evening folks,

Well the final installment in the Christmas concert post series. Tonight we journeyed down to the Borders for our last festive gig. Last year it was freezing and the year before I seem to remember we had to push someone's car out of the mud - well this year was very temperate if a little damp under foot. Just as an aside, I love how dark it is in the country (man, I sound like a right city slicker). John even had a hand lamp like a miner... except without the hard hat - I guess that was an unnecessary encumbrance.

The concert was a jolly affair, sung in a very narrow (in an architectural sense rather than a spiritual one) church. Well, we managed to cram in and had a good time with a very generous audience. Star of the show was certainly Susan who left her glasses at the back of church. Amazingly she managed all the way through to Gloria (you certainly need to be able to see music for this one if only to scowl at) at which point she ran straight down the aisle and ran back with spectacles in hand. She then had a small crisis of confidence during her intro for the Lauridsen and had to check that she was introducing the right piece. Cue much hilarity. A little comic relief dispelled the nerves certainly.

After the concert we had mulled wine and very large mince pies which were like Bakewell tarts without the almond - yum! Thanks to all at Longformacus for making us feel so welcome.

And so it is left to me to wish all and sundry (what does that even mean?) a very happy Christmas and a joyous new year. We will be back to rehearsals in January and the blog will start up again on the first Wednesday back. We are looking forward to singing at the Portrait Gallery, St Giles and down in York in the 2009 and hope you'll be able to come ad enjoy music with us very soon. Till then why do you need classic Christmas favourites on your ghetto blaster (oh yes music fans - I remain stuck in an eighties time warp) while making your mince pies when you can listen to what are they doing?, Rudsambee's latest offering. Don't panic Mum, I've got yours all wrapped up.

Hope Father Christmas brings you all you want - I've asked for world peace and the musical abilities of Ella Fitzgerald for my Christmas - I remain hopeful.

CSW

Christmastime is here, by golly...

Last night was the annual Rudsambee Christmas Party, hosted by the inimitable John and Susan who once again provided a warm reception and some hot potatoes. We felt less busy than previous years, but nobody could decide whether it was because there really were fewer people or if it just seemed calm and quiet without Frances and Sari.

Riotous or not, it was still a jolly jape; Anne wore what may be the shiniest skirt in the world (it may have been part of a dress, it was difficult to be sure because all you could look at was THE SKIRT), Rachel brought the bab and Angus brought a lady friend, much to Anne's excitement apparently. Babybel was passed around like a parcel - mercifully without the unwrapping.



After the small feast we suffered through enjoyed a new Rudsambee-centric version of We Three Kings, adapted by Robin and performed by Claire1, Jenny, Robin and Sebastian. Here, for their embarrassment and in the name of Posterity, is the song:



This was followed by the traditional Jenny-giving-thankyou-gifts section of the evening, the high point of which was Helen's reaction to getting something a little extra for all of her work on the CD, and then the now inevitable cello-and-piano Jazzathon, courtesy of Anne and Sebastian. Those amongst us of a more delicate constitution retreated at this point to the front room for quiet chat and a gentle appreciation of how draught-free it was.

Apparently we've been selling POTS of CDs (pots here is a technical term used for counting sales of something which you are excited to sell) and are already close to covering the cost of making it. Reviews coming in from friends and relative are positively gushing, including Sheena - which I think made the old-timers feel rather good.

And so we lok forward to Longformacus on Saturday and Black Medicine on Sunday. If you feel the need to see us before the spring then do come along to one of these - you could even buy a CD! In the meantime, here are some photos of the Christmas nonsense so far.

Chris

"You could fart in here and it would sound beautiful"...

Such was the elegant phrasing of Maestro Boy after last night's rather brilliant concert at St Giles. Man, it is fun and scary singing in that place. A great audience, amazing acoustic - in fact the delight of the evening was tempered only by the ladies' loos which have the worst lighting of anywhere this side of Christendom. It isn't very encouraging to go into a performance knowing that in a certain light you like like a dead version of ET with dark shadows around the eyes. I bet the Scottish Chamber doesn't have to put up with this. Yet, for all that, I for one enjoyed every second of the concert... although I did have one of those shaky hand moments after In Dulci Jubilo and going into Noel Nouvelet. I could barely hold my folder but hopefully no one noticed too much. I tell you what, Jen sounded bloomin' marvellous :-)

If you have missed us so far, think about traveling out to Longformacus this Saturday night. You'll be guaranteed a lovely evening in a seriously gorge part of the world... and probably a mince pie too! And you get to see the stars in all their glory without all those pesky street lights. Ah.

Anyways, hopefully you all have the new CD or will be giving it as a gift this festive season - there are just so many reasons to do so! It is easy to wrap (being square and stuff), easy to carry on a train and easy to listen to (except for the Tormis which is an effort but like all the best music, is worthwhile).

So long until after Saturday - man, you'll be getting bored of me!
CSW

Another day another gig!

Evening blog readers. Just a quickie to fill you in on a great night at Priestfield church. We have sung at this venue for nine years now and we are always guaranteed a warm welcome and a good cuppa in the interval - and, this evening, Jaffa Cakes (Kay had four so I'm told)! I think all of us would admit to feeling much more relaxed than on Saturday and we smiled our way through both halves while the lovely people of Priestfield smiled back and even joined in O Little Town of Bethlehem (this after Ol decided to give us a note that would have forced the top sops to journey well past the top stave; fortunately he stopped us halfway through the first line, gave us a 'C' instead and started again with a giggle... cue much relief all round).

I enjoyed the dear ol' ladies' faces throughout the weirdness of O Morganstern. I did warn them! Their aghast expressions resembled mine while battling with an Excel spreadsheet on Monday. An enjoyable night had by all and our lovely friend at Priestfield even gave us a tin of chocolates. Sadly he only remembered the pressie after the tenors and basses had left the stage so the sops and altos (and Ol who had to take centre stage as Maestro boy extraordinaire) have decided not to tell the gentlemen and to scoff the sweeties down on our own. Don't tell the boys...

So, until Sunday night when you will get another (granted, slightly biased) review of a Rudsambee concert. St Giles at Six on Sunday folks. It's always a good night and a big audience. We love singing there even though it is a little terrifying: lots of people, an enormous space and John Knox looking over our shoulders enjoying the Latin. The acoustic is perfect for 'big singing' so hopefully Sanctus and O Nata Lux will sound class.

CSW

Sleepy Marimba

Eric Whitacre points out this unique rendition of his piece, Sleep, which we thoroughly enjoyed singing last year:

Canongate- a quick run down

Dear all,

Sorry for the delay in updating you with goings-on at Canongate on Saturday night. Bit slow on the uptake this week. Well, we all made it to the Queen's church (it even has a pew just for the Royal family - we kept it free though I am sad to say that Liz the second decided not to attend. Not even a minor royal made an appearance. I would have been quite happy with the Wessexes) and rehearsed for an hour in the big blue barn-like church. By our own admission, it was not the greatest dress rehearsal ever. If we went in feeling quietly confident, we came out the other end with some well-honed fear.

However, in usual Rudsambee-fashion we rose to the occasion. The actual concert went pretty well really. I'm sure if you asked a Rudsambee-let they would point you to a dozen moments which could have been better but the audience enjoyed themselves and actually so did we. I think we covered up well and there were a couple of great pieces. 'O Nata Lux' was as good as we have ever sung it (pretty good considering that A-L has sung this piece, like, twice before last night- is this right A-L :-)? ) and 'Taladh Chriosa' with the beauty of Anne's harp playing was a complete highlight for me. Still feel that 'Gloria' could do with a bit of scatting and jazz hands (although I think I am largely over-ruled by my friends who have far more taste and musicality that myself) but it was a good night all in. We finished with one of Rudsambee's finest moments... at least I don't think I have ever laughed so much at the end of a performance as our brass band (who were trumpet-tooting legends btw) played 'We wish you a merry Christmas' and we decided to join in... at the wrong time... for the wrong verse. Figgy pudding anyone? Laugh?... like a drain my friends. It was genius!

If you missed it and are silently weeping into the sleeve notes of your new Rudsambee CD, then fear not: you can catch us again on Wednesday night at Priestfield church or on Sunday night at St Giles. I'll fill you in again after Priestfield. Before that enjoy your jolly, festive weeks.

CSW

Opening night is upon us...as is a nasty cough!

Welcome blog fans to the final post before we begin our Christmas concerts. A quick run down on last night's dress rehearsal (dress being the operative word as we wrapped ourselves in scarves and hats and gloves - ooo some Betinis in there for you there - in the coldest building this side of Christendom, Priestfield church). In fact my general chilliness might be largely due to not feeling too well. In fact, most of the Rudsambeelets have come down with something - an occupational hazard of choral singing I'm afraid. Lots of coughs and cold. Christopher had been to Boots (other reputable pharmaceutical establishments are available) and stocked up with lots of goodies including some rather brilliant Vit C/Probiotic granules. Like a sherbet fountain without the licorice bit and with a well... different taste - I can't even describe it but it makes your eyes water. I recommend getting your fix today - they are giving them away free at Boots if you buy any cold-related product. Yum!

Anyways, back to the music. Last night's rehearsal was long and tiring but good fun. Rather excitingly we had a clarsach and and brass band no less. Goodness, we are really branching out! The trumpets etc accompany us in a rousing rendition of 'We Three Kings'. The sops have a funny high jazzy line but the highlight is surely the three kings themselves: Christopher, Oliver 2 and Robin. Robin even had a woolly hat on that looked like a crown! It got us thinking... a nativity would be fun. I could wear a teatowel on my head as well as the next person. Claire 2 proceeded to tell us a rather distressing story about her thwarted chance to be Mary. Ask her about it... or rather don't, it is a tear-jerker.

Big excitement of the evening was holding a copy of the new CD. Ran home (actually I got the bus) to listen to it. Pretty impressed even though I guess I might be a little biased. Get your copy now... except my mum who is getting it for Christmas: don't you dare buy a copy!

Hopefully we'll see as many of you as possible at Canongate on Saturday night. It is going to be great... or at least eclectic and interesting. Do come along if you can.

I'm going to get my sleep now, like a proper pro.

CSW

what are they doing?

It's here! The new CD has arrived and is shiny and lovely. This means that everyone should be snapping up tickets for our first concert (Canongate Kirk, 6 December at 7.30) so that you can be first in the queue to buy one. Cheap at £9 each, with a plethora of special offers on the older models - perfect for Christmas!

If you would like to order tickets for the concert or find out how to order copies of the CD, drop an email to info@rudsambee.org.uk.



The tracklist is as follows:

1. Amuworo ayi otu nwa (For unto us a child is born)
2. La, la, la, je ne l'ose dire (la, la, la, I would dare say)
3. Vísur Vatnsenda-Rósu
4. Envoi from Towards sunshine, towards freedom: songs of smaller creatures
5. The Dark Eyed Sailor
6. Hide and seek
Four short songs from Vepsa Rajad (Vepsian Paths)
7. Kiisu-miisu (Pussy-cat).
8. Laulda teile lauluke (To Sing You A Little Song).
9. Taevased kosilased (The Heavenly Suitors).
10. Mis teil tehakse? (What Are They Doing?).
11. Sanctus
12. Lux Aurumque
13. Dindirin, Dindirin from Cancionero de Palacio (15th/16th Century)
14. En une seule fleur from Les Chansons des Roses
Five Hebrew Love Songs
15. Temuná (A picture).
16. Kalá Kallá (Light bride).
17. Lárov (Mostly).
18. Éyze shéleg! (What snow!).
19. Rakút (Tenderness).
20. O magnum mysterium
21. Stray cat strut
Four little pieces based on Gaelic puirt-a-beul
22. Tha bean agam (I have a wife).
23. Chuala mi e (I heard it three times).
24. Còta fad' air Dòmhnull lòm (A long coat on skinny Donald).
25. 'S ann an Ile (On Islay).
26. Ave Maris Stella from Piae Cantiones (1572)
27. Preab san ól (Another round)

Plainchant...impressive stuff in the hands of a Rudsambee expert!

Well in my mind tonight was dominated by Jen's musical pyrotechnics. Our new (although it better hadn't be too new as we are performing it in a week and a half) Tallis piece asks for a bit of plainchant. Actually a lot of plainchant. In fact there is time for the rest of the choir to go for a mince pie and some punch. However, Jen has stepped up to the plate (Ooo is that a wee nod to our American friends there) and is doing it as a solo which is a great relief to her fellow Rudsambee-lets. It is surprisingly difficult for a choir to sing the same tune at the same time. Generally it sounds like a Brownie singsong. Anyways, Jen took a deep breath and sang almost the entire sequence without taking another breath. 'Blimey' we all said! Lungs of steel!

So... it was a long rehearsal proceeded by our shortest warmup. Ol asked us to shake our right foot and then we were straight in though I must admit, I number of us shook our left foot too just for synchronicity. Christmas song after festive ditty was the way of the evening. In fact so much singing that we were all whacked out by the end of the night. Hence the brevity of this blog this evening...which you might, of course, count as a blessing.

My second highlight of the week was new Oliver's face as we bashed through Immanúel os i nátt, our dangerous Icelandic piece (remember this from last year? It was the one we looked scared throughout) and 'O Morganstern' with its two keys in one song madness. It reminded me how terrifying Rudsambee is when you first join! Suffice to say our new guys are showing us up largely and are obviously well capable of dealing with any dumb tuning adventure or ridiculous Gaelic word we through at them. Good job boys!

Can I remind all readers to get their tickets for the Christmas concerts. They are going to be great events and we'd love to see you there. Come along to Canongate and you'll even get a mince pie, though if it is a sell-out we might have to cut them into slices-a quarter piece anyone?

Anyways, I am off to Bedfordshire for forty winks. Enjoy the week ladies and gents. I am off to 'Mary Poppins' on Monday night and I'm very excited. Musical joys just dominate my life.

CSW

Gaelic, German and...growly...well...basses

Evening and kindest felicitations (see I got it in the right place this time) to all. Well, another Wednesday night and another blog post from me. Just come back from a night of Christmas music so am feeling a little like Dad after Christmas lunch- full of festive cheer and slightly sleepy. However...

We began this evening with a jolly warmup from Maestro Boy which included something to do with a rubber chicken (the link was a little complex) that nearly meant that Kay was welcomed by a smack across the face by a flailing bass arm. We also did that African round again though Jen thought it sounded quite Hawaiian - queue grass skirts and fruit on head... it doesn't take much to get us going.

Exciting news of the night is that Rudsambee are once again tentatively venturing from their a cappella roots and this Christmas will be performing with brass instruments. I hasten to add that we will not be putting our own lips to aforementioned trumpets and (I hope) trombones. No, we aren't getting the Sally Army in, we have found some brass players to help us out. I am hoping for a euphonium- the only musical instrument that could also be a permanent dwelling for a small person. However, more exciting still (can you stand it fans) our own Mrs Anne Grindley will be playing the clarsach. Hoorah! She is accompanying us during the Gaelic song Táladh Chriosda (sp?). We did consider having a verse of just voices before Anne came back in on the strings but decided (actually witty Robin decided) that Anne might go sharp during our solo verse. Ha, sharp indeed!

Well, there's the Gaelic of the title. The German was provided by Süßer die Glocken nie klingen for which Sebastian provided the Deutsch . Queue much laughter from Jen - German is apparently quite a funny language. The translation of this piece was also fairly entertaining, concluding with bells that clobber (Anne's word) the Vater, Mutter and Kind on the head. Or at least that it what we think it means.

As an aside, classic comment of the night was from Natalie and Anne.

Natalie: "I've got an f there. Should it be fortissimo?"
Anne: "Well I've got a p"
Natalie: "Oh, what should it be?"
Anne: "A p I think... although that might just be for me. Perhaps everyone else should be f"

For anyone who knows how Anne so adeptly leads us at times, this conversation should cause a wee smile!

Anyways, we carried on with our Christmas music, spending quite a lot of time on the new Lauridsen, which sounds like the old Lauridsen... not, I hasten to add, that that is a problem. We managed 'Bog Off' through without music and, though we are still slowing down, it is perhaps a little quicker than we had done it previously. We also enjoyed Run, Toboggan, Run and I tell you what, the ending is something special, though it does require a little 'jazz hands'.

During this evening's jollifications, I noticed that the basses can sing very low. I realise that this isn't a revelation that will change the world or anything but to hear our wonderful bass trio (generally quartet) hit those bottom notes is a sight... no, a listen to behold. The ground rocked... I am seriously concerned about the foundations of chez Wexler.

I'm off for a snooze ladies and gents before organising Scottish politics at work tomorrow. I hasten to add (and you'll be glad to know this) I am not actually making policy. But photocopying takes a bright mind don't you know. Get well soon to A-L who wasn't feeling too well tonight and heads up to Rach, Jake and Bel... just cause I like giving them a mention every once in a while.

Funniest email of the week goes once again to the Beeb who, not content with inviting Rudsambee to that choral comp they did, is now asking us to participate in Battle of the Brains. Sadly due to time restrictions we are unable to take up this kind offer... however it did get me thinking. Robin could take science; Maestro boy, music; Christopher, the skills of tickling; Jen, well, Jen could take a number of subjects couldn't she. The possibilities, as always at the end of a Rudsambee rehearsal are endless.

Stay safe and happy this week folks
CSW

"There are just so many notes..."

... or so says Douglas during warmup while staring at the Casio keyboard in a confused manner. He is right of course... there are a lot. Well, folks sorry for the delay in posting this. I am busy running Scotland at present (well, nearly... at least I can do online filing after today's course) and have only just had chance to put pen to paper, or, er, finger to keyboard.

Last night was a jolly evening of Christmas tunes. It began with a small group preparing for a wee Scottish concert that took place this evening. As I am skiving this one I can't tell you how it actually went so... I'll make it up..."Rudsambee brought the house down with their Gaelic songs and traditional Scotch tunes. A standing ovation was met with humble thanks from the valiant choral members." Accurate enough guys? Hope so! [Chris says: pretty close. We did have the shortest introductions in history due to the hubbub, though. My favourite was, and I quote, "Amazing Grace!"]

Anyways, on to the rehearsal of last night. Christmas music is now in full swing and it makes us all feel jolly. We began by sight singing a new piece called 'O Nata Lux'. It is basically Lauridsen's 'O Magnum Mysterium' (a classic Rudsambee tune from last year) with different words - big, slightly clashy and a couple of fab top sop notes that make your head spin round if you don't take in enough breath! As 'Magnum' was my Mum's favourite from last year and as I know she now reads this blog (and called it "racy" no less) this one is for you Mum. Suffice to say, it sounded really quite good by the end. It'll be cracking in St Giles.

Our second new piece was in German. It is called 'Susser die Glocken nie klingen' (sorry folks, my computer is struggling with Deutsch vowels but you get the general idea) and sounds, surprisingly enough, like clinging bells. It is pretty straight forward until the end when it all gets flat-y and sharp-y. The sops get to stay on a 'G' (composer Gundermann knew Rudsambee's limitations! I joke of course; sops are magnificent) while the other parts dot about all over the shop. The bass line makes the whole final section sound like a musical interlude in a Victorian melodrama... you know the bit where the villain comes in, twirls his dastardly moustache and kidnaps the girl from her wussy male companion. The trouble with me writing this stuff on a Thursday is that I have way too much time to think about it, hence the involved mental images. Anyways this song will be very jolly.

We finished off with 'Bog Off' and 'Apple Tree Wassail', both by heart though we missed Jen for the final moments of the latter. Clare had to do it on her own - she did, on a more positive note, manage to remember the amount of bushel baskets (see the past, like, four blog posts for this ongoing saga!). We have now nearly memorised these two pieces! Still slowing down in 'Bog Off' but give us time...

The major source of contention and debate this week has been the CD cover and tag lines and stuff. We are just increasing your anticipation in the run up to the general release at Christmas. Anne expressed some concern that her roof may sag with all the old CDs stored in her loft. Of course, it is a well-known fact that when a band's album goes platinum everyone wants to buy their back catalogue. So we live in hope that Anne's loft will be emptied by eager E-bay fans paying £20 a copy by next year (£30 if signed by members).

It also must be mentioned that Sebastian had a bit of shindig at his house last Saturday to watch the Susice DVD which Mirren directed (Ridley Scott has nothing on Mirren's epic theatrical cinematography). I sadly missed out but everyone seemed to have a brilliant time. The general feeling was that the Jazz Wars were a particular highlight. I am yet to see this, though I do have a copy waiting for a spare place in my busy taking-over-Scotland schedule. I await it with anticipation.

Here's an excerpt from the notorious DVD, though nothing too racy. This was Svatobor's half (well, third) of the concert:


Anyways, I am off to plan world political domination beginning with Scotland's electronic procurement system (I can buy coffee online). See you next week folk and folkesses.

CSW

Cheesy wotsits take two...

As I was leading warmup tonight we began again with the Cheesy Wotsit song. What larks! We even did a combat physical warm up which involved four moves. Just so we didn't fall over laughing we all closed our eyes. When I opened my eyes (a little before everyone else - hey I was leading after all) there were the delightful Rudsambeelets in all their glory at various angles with legs akimbo and arms in the air. Hilarious! A visual treat for all the family.

Anyways, before going on, I should like to clear up an important misunderstanding from last week- biscuits should never be dunked in herbal tea. Ever. No, not ever... not even a Hobnob, and particularly not a pink wafer. Pink wafers are the wussiest of all the biscuit genre: not only are they pink (the colour of girls) but they are made of wafer and therefore disappear upon contact with liquid. Anyways, I digress. Just find yourself a proper cuppa for dunking.

On tea and pink wafers:


Tonight was, as usual much fun. We are continuing on our Christmas theme. Worked out it was less than a month 'til the Canongate concert. Robin made an exploding face! It all seems to be going quite well though. We danced our way through Amuworo tonight... yes, that African one again. Just as Woody Harrelson knows, white men can't jump; neither, apparently, can they dance to a rhythm. I include the ladies in this, btw. Getting the proper timing of this tricky little blighter is much easier if you move to the music. Susan's dance was best. She even had a wee arm movement which I liked very much. If Eurovision isn't a goer (see last post) then Strictly Come Dancing it is.

We moved on to the delights of In Dulci Jubilo. We spent a bit of time on the octet which sounded much better. It is actually sounding like a piece of music with dynamics now. What larks! After that we sang through the Tallis which has a pretty impossible tenor line. Maestro Boy asked the sops to sing with the tenors and the altos to sing with the basses. It became obvious pretty quickly that the tenors had drawn the short straw as we bumbled along being more of a hinderance than a help and Anne led the basses (who, respect where it is due, probably didn't need leading anyways). We soon were all singing the tenor line which has an irritating descending fourth of all things. Descending fourths are like the bullies of the choral world- everyone is scared of them, no one can bring themselves to be friends with them but there is always a grudging respect. Oooh an extended metaphor.

We sang both 'Bog off' and 'Apple tree' (with the prescription three bushel baskets I hasten to add) by heart and nearly got them right. We slowed the 'Bog Off' down so we could get the words in but that's a small price to pay for pronunciation excellence. And with that we concluded the evening's rehearsal. As I am starting a new job tomorrow (the heady world of governmental office beckons - watch out Obama!) I didn't stay for the general chit chat upon conclusion. However we did do a rendition of 'Alice the Camel', an exciting, multi-faceted piece of musical satire. No doubt the Editorial King (aka Christopher) will put it up at some stage. [Yep!]


Good to see ill folks back tonight (they were less ill btw) and 'hey ho' to those who weren't with us this evening. Particularly 'howdy doody' to Rach, Jake and Bel the Beautiful. We miss you Rach!

Heads up on Christmas concerts btw. Get your tickets. They will be on sale soon and Canongate will be spectacular. Trust me, don't miss it whatever you do. Invite your friends, family, enemies etc. Details on the website.

Regards on this chill and frosty eve
CSW

In Dulci Jubilo- Rudsambee Christmas begins in earnest...or rather begins in mirth.

Good evening merry friends and welcome to another blog post for your general informed enjoyment.

Another Wednesday another carol. Tonight we began with the 'Apple Tree Wassail'. For anyone who attended a yuletide concert last year, this was the one with stamping (or rather stomping), clapping, and discussions of a farmer's old cow and the problems of milking her. What larks! Well, it must be said we largely remembered it quite well, although we do have a tendency to make up the words when we are swinging along. As you may recall, it finishes with Jen and Claire 2 doing a Macbeth-three-witches impression (or rather two witches): 'three bushel baskets/ little heaps under the stairs' (for anyone who hasn't heard this piece, I am quite sure that my description sounds bizarre to say the least- come and watch us and you'll see what I mean). Except that Claire 2 struggles to remember how many 'bushel baskets' there are; three? forty-seven? Anyways, as Helen so eloquently put it, 'there is something creepy under the stairs'.

Our brains were tested again trying to remember 'In Dulci Jubilo'. Last time we sang this was in front of Richard Wilson and Carol Smillie no less, and we were fairly impressed that we had recollected any of it. We even thought about dynamics. Goodness! The first time Robin sang the trio (I nearly said triplet then, but singing a single triplet isn't quite as impressive as singing a whole trio) he apparently managed to sing about 'nasty tashes'. The mental images on that one are really endless... and horrid! Suffice to say, the piece requires a little more work but at least we don't have to do that painful note bashing malarky (sp?).

While we were on a roll, Maestro boy decided that a quick sing of the old 'Lux Auremque' was in order. Poor Helen has probably heard this piece more often than the illustrious composer due to her valiant work on the CD. Nevertheless, her solo note still sounded beautiful. As a second soprano, I am constantly amazed by our Diva duo (Helen and A-L) who stay on the same note for about half an hour. I could go away, make and drink a cup of chamomile tea, eat a chocolate Hobnob (there's a biscuit for dunking [Chris says: But not in herbal tea, surely!]) and do a short Irish jig while singing my current favourite folkie song, 'She moved through the fair', and come back, and the Diva duo would still be smiling and holding on to that note. Impressive stuff!

Anyways, we concluded our evening with our usual intellectual chat and banter. A brief rendition of 'Little Green Frog' was in order and with that, and an animated discussion of what indeed was happening at the Pleasance next Friday (I'm not sure that we came to any conclusion on this one even though it is written in the communal diary, so if anyone knows an answer then please do leave a comment), we were done.



Just enough time to send best wishes to all those in our Rudsambee family who are feeling a little under the weather right now. There seems to be so much illness about. Get well soon to all and 'break a leg' (not literally ladies, especially with your track record!) to the Wild Myrtles who are off to blow Ireland away with their great sounds.

Apparently Rudsambee received an email about doing Eurovision. Well... the possibilities are surely endless! Definitely skirts you can whip off, the tenors doing some sort of tribal-infused dance sequence, the basses doing their best didgeridoo (honestly can't be bothered with the spelling of that one) impression, Maestro boy in a sparkly suit... oh goodness, this one is going to keep me up at night.

And with that merriment, I bid a fond farewell to all readers for this week.

felicitations (that should probably have gone at the beginning- Ooo cyclical blog posts, how very Modernist! The beginning that could be the end, an end that could be a beginning... agh my tiny mind is imploding).

CSW

Decking Hall(s) and a bit of Tallis

Morning people of the blog

Hope this finds everyone well this morning. Judging by last night's patchy rehearsal attendance, there are lots of folks who aren't feeling well this wet Edinburgh morning. Take echinacea, vitamin C and sleep lots - my suggestions. Anyways... the lowdown on all things Rudsambee is here -- the perfect cure!

We began last night with an African round ably led by Maestro boy Ol. This after a small group rehearsal of Noel Nouvelet, a tunelet we did last year as a small group and this year are singing as a slightly larger group. With the additions (John, Susan and Claire 2) the whole thing sounded much brighter and less 'light on top', as Helen put it. The previous year Helen, Jen and I had battled against 5 boys in a sort of musical gladiators. Adding a couple more women (and John of course) has helped a great deal. We then bashed through the 'Bog off' again, a piece that is sounding better now we are getting the Russian into our heads.

Then, despite Maestro boy's protestations to the contrary last week, we began to note bash 'Deck the Hall'. Note the singular 'hall' here which shows it is a carol for our credit crunch age. Btw I really had to concentrate not to put an 's' on the end of hall - surely we can do more than one hall? We have tinsel, I can fetch more holly from the garden, all the basses can dress up as Santa - we can have four grottos! Anyways, it is a jolly version with some of the funniest notations I have ever read. At one point the sopranos are meant to be 'teasing' (I'll leave that to your imagination, discretion being the better part of valour), the altos 'inviting' (as always), the tenors 'persuasive' (?) and the basses 'bullying' (which is entirely out of character may I say). Later the altos have to be 'hysterical' which, to be honest, was worryingly easy for Jen, Claire 2 and Anne, though it is only supposed to be a bar of hystericalness (is that even a word?) - it's stopping them that is the problem! At present we haven't done the final page and finishing abruptly on a 'la' is perhaps fun for Rudsambee, but less satisfactory for an audience. Apparently the cadenza can be omitted or the conductor can write his own. Come on Maestro boy, I want an interesting piece of wackiness (with at least four key changes and the addition of panpipes) for our finale!

We moved on the a new bit of Tallis which just means you have to count... a lot! It will be lovely at St Giles. It has a long bit of plainchant which we did at double quick time with Anne as plainchant is pretty dull to rehearse though, hopefully, nice to hear.

Our final conversations focused on the CD (as always, though a decision has now been made and I'm sure fans will be suitably impressed by the artistic wonderment), promoting the Canongate concert (it is in Edinburgh, has nice acoustics and, most importantly, it is a darn sight warmer that Roslin) and Ecclefechan tart which is like an Eccles cake except, well, 'fechaned'. Anyways, we finished with a rousing rendition of Little Green Frog and Alice the Camel, and chatted about the importance of a work/life balance. And with that serious, self-helpy final suggestion, I bow out for the week.


Alice the Camel:
DISCLAIMER: This is not us, nor do we sound like this!





Keep feeling Christmassy folks!

CSW

CDs, Carols and a Cuppa

Morning all,
To fill you in on last night's rehearsal...After a challenging concert (a la last Wednesday), the next rehearsal is always a cheery, freedom-filled affair and last night was no exception. Queue quite a lot of laughing (including at one stage me and A-L literally crying with mirth). If you had inadvertently walked into the Wexler's abode at about 7.50pm, you would have discovered fifteen (ish- lots of illness!) grown people with books on their heads (I got a Chalet girl novel, A-L got 'The Secret Garden', I was jealous...) attempting to do a basic celiedh dance while singing barely recognisable notes. What larks! Our new tenor, Oliver (yes...another one) joined us and wasn't put off by this general madness. WELCOME OLIVER!

And so on to the rehearsal proper. We concentrated on two pieces- the Betinis 'Run, Tobogan, Run' which has A LOT of words and a jazzy tune, and Part's 'Bog off'. The former has a lovely easy soprano line and a really tough alto line so we sit there looking smug. It sounded very good and it will be fun to sing at Christmas. The latter is exciting, mainly because, as Robin so eloquently put it, 'you get to sing loud'. Well, indeed you do, very loud! It is the dynamic change that makes this piece so interesting...that and the fact that in true Rudsambee style, it is in Russian. Ol has decided to leave 'Deck the Halls' etc for November. Singing proper carols before that seems wrong somehow, like stores that have their advent calendars in before the end of August and shopping centres that insist on playing Cliff (who I love btw) in October.

Anyways, the final half hour was spent talking about the new CD. Had you been in the Rudsambee email inner ring this week (not quite as exciting as it sounds actually), you would have had an inbox full of correspondence relating to this very topic. It is the big discussion point of the week (forget the stoopid American election...this is where it is at). Actually I think we got away quite lightly as no one threw anything, stormed out or took umbrage, and we made decisions. Hoorah! Helen is working jolly hard on the recording while our resident Roger Dean-alike, John, battles with the design. Look out for it folks- it will be there in time for Santa to bring you a copy.

It was great to see Alison back last night. We missed you very much and are really glad you are up and about. Lots of illness in Rudsambee right now so get well soon to all who feel sick, especially Kay who sounded dreadful. Final chat went as follows...Peter Kay, the remarkable similarities between his joke song and the new single from lovely Leon Jackson, the Biblical book of Ezra, the problems in our academic system, the little green frog song and Alice the camel. For a small fee, I will perform either of those final two.

Felicitations
CSW

A triumph...ok...so that might be overstating it but we didn't fall off the metaphorical cliff

This will have to be a quick one this morning as Jen and I are off to visit Rach and the wee one. Suffice to say last night's concert was really good. We arrived to be ushered into a room with a complicated coffee machine by some extremely efficient and friendly NLS workers. One told us that they had some rare Burns manuscripts in the 'ball room'... not sure whether his comment was a threat or an invitation to nick them and share the proceeds. Or indeed just a fascinating piece of information of course.

We warmed up in the performance room and were massively impressed with the acoustic. Although it meant that we couldn't change tempo easily, it made it a beautiful listening experience (hopefully!) for the audience and great fun for us. So we went out to perform with a sick sort of feeling in our stomachs. Actually I can only speak for myself but I'm not sure I have been as nervous as that since the senior music competition at school. Well as it goes, it sounded really rather good. When Ol returned to his place out front as chief, conductor and leader of men, his face was smiling in relief. All downhill from there folks and our two new Gaelic ones were even passable in spite of dodgy lyrics. Peter 1, had you been standing next to me and been dead you would have turned in your grave.

All in all a jolly evening and I even got back in time for a run to beautiful Newhaven harbour. It was also lovely to see some happy smiling faces we knew and particularly nice to see Alison. Great to see you up and about lady. We miss you very much so come back...soon!

Enjoy the day one and all

CSW

The night before the errr...night after

Just a quick post to fill you in on the night's proceedings. We had a small group rehearsal to go through O Bone Jesu. I am pleased to announce that I can now sing at least, ooo, three words without looking at my music (definitely not one for the 'let's do it by heart' brigade) and have even nearly cracked the first page. We had a very jolly time and by the end of the rehearsal even had (shock horror!) dynamics! It actually sounds like a piece of real music. What joy!


So roll on tomorrow evening when we perform at the National Library of Scotland. Apparently there are tickets left in case anyone reading this fancies a jolly jaunt to see Rudsambee battle with Carver (man, that sounds dangerous!). Join us if you can.


Thanks to A-L for a great birthday party on Saturday night. Sebastian sang West Side Story [Chris says: What, ALL OF IT?], I realised that Bernstein is just way higher than I thought, Anne wore a basque (just see how you missed out), Tim looked like a Chav and A-L looked like the cleaner (aka Mrs Overall) in Acorn Antiques. We finished the evening admiring the beauty of Takamine guitars. Even Dave Gilmour played one don't you know and he is a discerning gentlemen with a posh voice and a penchant for impressive light shows.


Here, have a snatch of Mrs Overall (not Anna-Lauren in this case):





You'll get an update tomorrow night of course.


CSW

'Gaelic is a dead language'...

...or so says Kay in our official quote of the night. Peter, if you are reading this, apologies. Actually after last night there were a number of us wishing that Gaelic were a dead language. Ol rather brilliantly made a new 'verse 3 sheet' for the ladies but we still had long discussions about the actual pronunciation. This, fans, is something that occurs every time we sing in an unfamiliar (though by the end of rehearsal I was beginning to think in soft 't's') language (sorry for confusing that sentence with unnecessary parenthesis- it is the way my mind works! Ha apologising in parenthesis, how ironic in an Alanis Morrisette way i.e. not ironic). Generally, however, we have our resident Gaelic expert and all round good egg Peter there to keep us right. Now he has abandoned us for the delights of Asia, we are all alone in the world.

Well, we eventually coped admirably. I think we probably all lost the will to live at some stage in the conversation. In fact, Anne began to eat her tea which, by her own admission, excluded her from proceedings. Nailed the two songs by the end.

This is all in preparation for next week's turn at the National Library. As regular blog fans will know, we have been working on (tearing up, cursing) a piece called 'O Bone Jesu' for a few weeks now. I still sometimes come to a passage and feel I have never read it before. If Jenny and Susan decide to sail away before next week, the two Claires will do a small avant-garde solo piece while the rest of the choir sing Carver's original. It would indeed be quite funny and a little frightening, but would be better than us attempting the tenor and second sop lines alone. It really could be a whole new song. We sang a bit of 'O Bone Jesu' to the rest of the choir. Sebastian actually looked quite impressed while Kay (in fact she won first and second place in the quote of the night comp) expressed surprise and horror(?) that the extract was only about a quarter of the whole piece. It is indeed the longest thing (except 'Five Hebrew' which doesn't feel long) we have sung in a while. We are considering handing out hot bacon rolls or providing an intermission after page six so people can stretch their legs and spend a penny.

Anyways, the concert is next week at the National Library. It is ticketed to stop the riff-raff getting in, but I suppose if you are respectable you may well be able to gain entry. This weekend is A-L's birthday party so there should be some jolly photos of that at some stage (by the by, cheers for the photo of the autograph, Christopher- how exciting Boosh fans!). Apparently we have to come badly dressed which is proving to be a challenge for yours truly (I jest). I concluded the evening by taking Jen on the most roundabout route back to Leith. Sorry lovely lady! I can partly blame my own incompetence and largely blame the roadworks which are beginning to drain the life out of us Leithers. Edinburgh Council, 'Relative Pitch' calls on you to get it sorted!

And on that political (oo-er dodgy territory here) note, I bid you a fond adieu.

CSW

An exciting meeting...but nothing to do with Rudsambee

Morning blog fans,
Well as I was not present at Wednesday's rehearsal due to a jolly jaunt down to the capital, I can't tell you anything about the rehearsal other than (by the tone of an email from Ol) we still have work to do on the Carver!


Therefore I will tell you an exciting story from my trip (Chris, hallowed editor, has warned me not to put up rubbish about the life of Dr C [Chris says: not too much, anyway] but I will break that promise just once today). Getting on a train at King's Cross and a tall man walked past me with dark glasses. Now it is a fact universally acknowledged that a tall man in dark glasses must be a celeb of some kind or someone pretending to be a celeb a la me outside Tiffany's jewelers in NY this year. Shock horror but it was only the wonderful Julian Barratt aka Howard Moon of Mighty Boosh fame. Now, as Rach and Natalie will know (after a long rambling conversation), I am a bit of a fan. Cue very excited sharp intake of breath - but he got on the first class coach while I dragged myself down to busy coach E.


And I thought that was the end of it. However, I could not listen to John Wetton's greatest hits in peace knowing that comedy legend was on the train heading to York for a show. So, I made my way to dining coach (after finding £1.45 for a cuppa), smiled nicely at Geordie coffee man... and to cut a long story short, I ended up being dragged through first class by three excited National Express workers (who BTW had no idea who he was) so I could be introduced. Much embarrassment from yours truly! However, Mr Barratt was lovely and very sweet, considering I had just interrupted his quiet prep time. He signed his (very groovy) autograph (see here for the scary photo) and was so nice that he went up in my estimation.





One thing I did notice: he really does have very small eyes (one for the Boosh fans there). Anyways, this is turning into a rambling blog about me. Promise we will be back to normal service next week.


Enjoy the week
CSW


ps specially for Claire, here's some antique Barratt:

Auf Wiedersehen Thomas

A very quick update to wish our resident Deutsche bass Tom a fond farewell as he moves across to Amsterdam. It has been great to have Tom sing with us and we'll miss him lots and lots [Chris says: although we still have three foreign cycling Basses in the choir and they're probably quite interchangeable ;) ]. We had a nice farewell meal at Vittoria's (I turned up in time for ice-cream - yey!) and discussed such highbrow topics as Scrabble in Chinese, the potent mix of cameras and olive oil and the fact that Jen bet on a football match at 25-1 (actually this was a misunderstanding by Sebastian, but it made us laugh).

Anyways, "may the road rise to meet you" Tom.

CSW

"Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat, please to put a penny in the old man's hat..."

Ah, my favourite things about Christmas... eating chocolate for breakfast, falling asleep after dinner with my paper hat over my face, rubbish telly... and starting to sing about snow and sledges in September. As anyone in a choir will know, the festive season always begins early for us singers. By the time you actually get to Christmas Day you never want to hear another carol again and as for that song by Slade (you know the one), well, I wouldn't want to describe the sort of emotions that dredges up. However at this early stage in proceedings songs discussing the pros and cons of knitwear and woolly scarves are still very welcome.

We began a jollyAbbie Betinis Christmas piece tonight, Run, Toboggan, Run which has some extremo tough bits particularly for the poor altos. We sops have a pretty easy time of it except that we are responsible for bringing the choir back to the original key after a wee musical dalliance elsewhere. It is, as usual with Betinis it seems, a good, challenging, pretty jazzy sort of piece.

We also looked at the Arvo Part piece again (the one that sounds like Ollie is telling us to "Bog off" - man I love singing in wacky languages!). He reckons this will be a good piece to start a concert with. All I can say is hang on to your hats dear audience and prepare to be bombarded with sound! All the best prog bands begin their concerts with a bombastic classical piece by Wagner or Britten... this is the Rudsambee equivalent.

Once again, in the absence of the piece itself, here's a fascinating insight into the mind of Part. And Bjork.



Anyways, highlight of our evening was a visit from Rach and Isabel. Now I don't know much about newborn babies (Rach filled us in on a couple of things I had never even thought about... eating hair and the like!) but generally IMHO babies look like old men or those troll dolls we had when we were kids [Chris says: Please stop accusing me of having Troll hair, everyone!]. Isabel however is beautiful - genuinely, not just saying that. Welcome to your first rehearsal wee one- we look forward with anticipation to future rendition of, say, Envoi?

That's all for now folks. Hope readers have a happy week and all.

CSw

'Cheesy Wotsits Are All I'll Eat'

The title of the post was the central task of our warm up tonight. Don't ask! Suffice to say it was a musical triumph... as always. It was sung to the tune of 'Viva La Musica', a wee song taught to me by my old music teacher Mr 'Wacko Jacko' Towers. We also made animal noises... classic Rudsambee weirdness.



Anyway, we spent a considerable amount of time on a jolly Russian-stylee piece by our newest friend Arvo Pärt. It isn't in two different keys this time at least but it is in, well, Russian. A tough language to sing in especially at breakneck speed. This piece has one of the most difficult page turns I have ever seen. In fact so difficult that currently we are singing it avec a large fermata (man that sounds like something you might eat as a side in a Mexican restaurant) at present to give us time to collect ourselves. We'll gradually speed up I'm sure.

We did a wee bit of work on our new Gaelic pieces. Ol had once again typed up the phonetic notes. This time though one line starts (apparently though I'm sure our friends on Skye or South Uist or wherever would challenge this) 'U rine'... seriously! Ol hadn't noticed his slip and Douglas went as far as to say that it was a good job there was a 'wee gap' between 'U' and 'rine'. Brilliant!

And finally, congratulations to Rach and Jake who now have little Isabella Mary in the family. She was born this morning I think and weighed 7.12 (I think) which is, as Christopher put it, nearly the same size as Rach! Congrats to the Kings; we'll look forward to her joining our altos soon.

And on that note, I'll sign off. Chris introduced me to Imogen Heap's new version of 'Hide and Seek' called, originally and profoundly enough 'Hide and Seek 2' (well if it's good enough for Playstation and Spiderman) which has a brilliant background electric axe playing. It left me wondering whether choir funds would stretch to a limited edition Knopfler Fender Strat.

And with that final dream, I bid you goodnight (did you notice I did the 'and finally' three times there- this is a trick that all lecturers and vicars learn early on... there is always the hope you are going to bloomin' finish soon).

CSW

Carv-ing out the music

Good morning blog fans. Well, last night a slightly smaller group of us met to bash through this Robert Carver piece, O Bone Jesu. As mentioned before we are singing this at the National Library of Scotland in October. It is pretty tough and the two Claires had particular challenges as we changed parts. Sight reading is a frightening thing but not half as frightening as the notes Claire 2 has to hit as a tenor. Blimey! Jen and Claire 2 can sing LOW. Us sops gave it a go and couldn't get anywhere close even after sharing a packet of Mentoes which made Jen slurp the low notes. Sorry to the rest of our little group who didn't get a sweetie btw - I ran out half way round and we all had to chew quietly like you did when you were a kid trying to eat Hubba Bubba in assembly.




Anyways, suffice to say we sounded brilliant. Well... that might be a wee bit of an over-statement but it sounded like music, which is a start. We sang through it backwards (not actually backwards silly... oh you know what I mean!) and almost got to the bit we actually knew. It is a piece you have to count through - tough for a person like me who can barely recite my three times table. Stop counting and you'll crash and burn. So it is a little like standing on the edge of a large cliff. Certainly not a relaxing musical experience.




By now Ol and Helen should be winging their way to Iceland. We wish them a happy, chilled out trip. Oh... and no news of Rach and the baby yet. Love and hugs deary should you be reading this. Also hugs to Alison who is taking a wee break courtesy of the NHS. We will miss you while you are away.




Apparently Jimi Hendrix's burned guitar from that 1967(?) concert where he set his Strat alight is going on sale for squillions of pounds today. Perhaps we could auction off Ol's baton... or Chris' tambourine (as bought hastily from Blackwells and played at St Giles)... or that wee green wooden frog that has come in handy on a number of percussive occasions... or an original bottle of Slivovice from our Czech tour... OK, so maybe not. But when the album comes out surely such objects will soar in value!




Since almost nobody has recorded O Bone Jesu (let alone put it on YouTube!) here's Eric Whitacre's Cloudburst, which we're making an early start on for the spring (different version now, at Susan's recommendation):






Enjoy this jolly day folks
CSW

Beginnings of Cloudburst

So...what do seals, gorillas and JS Bach have in common? Stumped? Well, they are all an integral part of Arno's warmup last night- genius friends! Our two guests must have thought they were entering a madhouse...which isn't far from the truth actually.

We had a good rehearsal last night, spending a lot of time on Cloudburst which is a piece that has been on our metaphorical horizon for a while. It requires a great deal of percussion eventually but at present we are just concentrating on the vocal bits. By the end it was actually sounding pretty good. It is really unusual (what a surprise!) but is by our favourite composer Mr Whitacre of 'Five Hebrew Love Songs' and chiselled cheekbones fame. We are looking forward to performing it is the near future.

We also bashed through 'O Bone Jesu' which really is quite a challenge for us all. The guys in particular have a couple of really tough phrases. We'll be performing this at the National Library in October which should be great. Other than the fact that I had the collected works of 'Spinal Tap' in my head all night we had a great time.

For our patrons...please don't give up hope. Your newsletters are on the way. I am just slow on the uptake.

Hope everyone has a fabulous day.
CSW

Do I get a prize?

Well, I definitely broke a record last night. I arrived at choir at 9.30 exactly after a long meeting. It seemed that everyone had had a great night though and apparently the Carver actually sounded like a piece of music this evening. I should stay away more often! Then we discussed future plans which include tour possibilities and a concert of a very jolly piece called 'Cloudburst'. Watch this space for more info folks. So, since I missed the rehearsal, the question is, what to write in the blog today? So I thought I'd take this opportunity to welcome our newest member Angus. He is our latest bass and, in spite of the name, is actually an Aussie. We hope you'll settle in quickly and look forward to singing alongside you, Angus. I could give you lots of warnings and words of advice but I'll leave you to find it all out yourself!
Following on from my last post, here is a young gentleman playing the theremin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-3lU3bgOgE). He actually does a version of 'Video Killed the Radiostar', not only the best pop song ever written and the first video to be played on MTV, but also a song I had the pleasure of hearing Asia perform with Geoff Downes (legendary ex-Buggle) in a silver jacket- now that was a musical event.
Enjoy the day folks.
CSW

Great night at St Giles

Well looky here. You wait ages for a blog post and then three come along in one week- like the number 35 bus which we waited forty minutes for yesterday until we got so cross that we went for the ever-dependable number 22. Just thought I would sum up our evening at St Giles. What a good concert! Thanks to all who came along to support us. We really had a great time and I must say I thought we sounded pretty tight- the 2nd sops managed the 'ahs' in 'Envoi', A-L hit that top C so well that it resounded round the walls for about half an hour (I could have gone for a cuppa tea and a piece of maltloaf and still have been able to hear the note rattling in the rafters upon my return- did you notice the alliterative merits of that sentence? Genius!) , Robin very ably took a line on his own and the tenors sounded more than lovely in my favourite bit of Kala Kala. We even smiled and looked about.

The general professionalism of the performance has to be down to Ol who grinned his way through the conducting and even made me smile at the beginning of 'When I Fall in Love'! No bagpipes outside the door this year but we did have a drumming band which bashed about a bit. Muchos thanks to all at St Giles who made our concert so enjoyable- we'll look forward to coming back soon! Thanks also to Anne who played the piano and as usual made sure that we were all in the right place at the right time and to Claire who played the violin so beautifully for Hebrew Love Songs. Now we have escaped the acapella-ness of Rudsambee perhaps new exciting instrumental doors will open...electric guitar, euphonium, xylophone...Oooo balalaika, ukulele, didjibodhrán (yes, you heard right, this is a real instrument) or for one of our most loyal supporters Jake, a Theremin (yep, Jake we were listening to the radio show tonight!) (Chris says: Be careful what you wish for!).

Anyways as a couple of final bits of concert trivia- this was Rach's last concert with bump (we are looking forward to a new member of the choir arriving in a couple of weeks), when we warmed up downstairs we apparently sounded like seals (according to Robin), A-L's great hubby Tim had to come to the rescue with her shirt that she had left at home, only an hour before the performance we were without a tambourine and Christopher had to go to Blackwells' percussion section every bloody shop in town (Chris says: apparently music shops alone stil hold the Sabbath as a day of rest) and finally I have decided that my wooly scarf is just too much for a summer concert and will invest in a more appropriate red accessory... perhaps one of those groovy hats with a fan in the peak or a swimsuit... blimey that would cause a stir and I'm not sure that Edinburgh is quite ready for that even at anything-goes festival time.

Anyways, a Yes DVD beckons on my TV courtesy of hubbie and I'm going to settle down with a cuppa. Thanks again for support folks. It would have been pretty dull without an audience.
Peace... go play that didjibodhrán and explore your sound space.
CSW

Good times in Balerno

Well Rudsambee warmed up for tomorrow's concert with Pims and Elderflower juice at Anne and Dick's in Balerno. Even the weather stayed nice. We ate some brilliant pavlova and discussed the pros and cons of wearing lobster suits to PhD VIVAs. Don't let it ever be said that Rudsambee members don't address the key issues of the day. See you all tomorrow at St Giles!
CSW

A note that only dogs can hear

This post is dedicated to the vocal talents of Anna-Lauren, our resident top soprano and all round good egg. Last night, in a very jolly rehearsal at Priestfield Church, I had the pleasure of standing next to A-L as she hit the top C (yes, you hear right fans) in the Tormis. Blimey, it's no wonder the church windows are boarded up at present (actually I think they are doing improvements but it may well be because A-L's top note would indeed shatter glass). Certainly impressive. She tends to get a round of applause after each take. Come on Sunday night and you'll see what I mean. Genius!

Last night we were preparing for our St Giles' concert on Sunday evening. Hilariously we picked up 'Envoi' and the French Lauridsen one for the first time since our exploits in the Czech Republic. My brain is extremely sieve-like and I struggled to remember the tune let alone the dynamics. We don't want to peep too early, it'll be alright on the night and various other performance-based platitudes. Listen out for the second sopranos 'ahs' in 'Envoi' and be suitably impressed. We have to dance our way through them otherwise maintaining the rhythm is virtually impossible! After going through each of the pieces we are singing on Sunday, making stupid faces at 'O Morganstern' which will sound pretty special in a big acoustic and having a quick run through of 'When I fall in Love' (Oh yes a bit of cheese never goes amiss...even in St Giles) we finished for the night. Playing 'ten girl's names' on the way home (ask Ol) meant for an entertaining ride and that was about it. We welcomed our new bass last night as well who hopefully wasn't put off by the general chaos of Rudsambee-ness.

Hopefully see you all on Sunday evening. I'll be the one dancing salsa in the tougher bits of 'Envoi'
having just eaten a large falafel and hummus wrap (go the Theatre Workshop for lunch folks...it is the best) it is goodbye from a full and slightly sleepy scribe.
CSA

"Your say potato and I say pot-a-to" etc

Well good morning to all. Hope everyone is enjoying Olympic fever and seriously contemplating whether to take up kayaking or synchronised diving. Sorry for delay in post but I have been up to my eyeballs in boxes, dust and stuff I never knew I had (we have been moving house!)

We had a great rehearsal on Wednesday. I thought we sounded rather good (there is not a hint of surprise in that comment btw). After last week's attempt to transcribe Peter's Gaelic pronunciation CD Ollie made the excellent decision to print out a sheet with it all on already. Wise choice bro! So we bashed our way through our new Gaelic song at breakneck speed stopping only when the words could not be squeezed into the rhythms.

After this we had the joy of Tormis. Our key Estonian-based music question for this week...what do you call a collection of Tormis pieces...Tormii, Tormis', Tormisupials (this last one is my favourite- wacky Eastern European song meets kangaroo, I bet you weren't expecting that combo!). Whatever, these pieces are really coming on well.

'O Morganstern' is our piece in two keys and we are singing it at St Giles on Sunday. Although it is sounding rather beautiful in a 'difficult-to-listen-to' sort of a way, we are still making pained faces as we sing it. Claire 2 (always sensitive to the way our performance looks) drew our attention to the frankly ridiculous faces we were all pulling. I guess that the face in question is a cross between sucking a lemon, someone standing on your toe and trying to concentrate extra hard on a actor who isn't projecting his voice (goodness, imagine that sort of a visage- I wanted to think of a synonym for face as I feel that I have used that word enough, however visage was all I could think of so excuse the pretension). Hopefully we will look calm, serene and angelic when we perform this on Sunday. On second thoughts...

Anyways, that's all for know. Can I remind all Rudsambee followers that we are doing our 'festival gig' on Sunday night at St Giles so please come along if you are free. It should be a great show.
ttfn (Ooo an abbreviation I haven't used in a long while)
CSW

"Blimey, that's a toughie!"

Post title: general response to much of current repertoire.

Another Wednesday and another rehearsal. It was a big welcome back to Alison after her trip to Cuba and to Robin (who has been to... well... I'm not sure where Robin has been) and to Tom who will be leaving us for good soon so we are gearing up for a tearful 'Irish Blessing'. Anne was away on her jollies but we managed to (almost) organise ourselves successfully without her; Jen had to take the 'men's rehearsal' while we women went off to try and sing in tune. My mum visited as well and thought we were great... though it has to be said, she always thinks we are great.

Our evening started with a swimming session led by Claire 2 - yes you did hear right. Imagine us all waving our arms around pretending to do butterfly...nice image huh? Well, we went on to do some concentrated effort on the Tormis and then progressed/regressed on to Arvo Part's 'O Morganstern'. My particular highlight of the week was Alison's face as she plowed her way through these new pieces.

Now, those who are familiar with Rudsambee music will know that we often sing in different languages from Estonian to Zulu. We like the challenge and it makes us sound intellectual and highbrow (joke). We often sing in Gaelic relying on Peter, our resident Gaelic speaker. However he is now in China getting to grips with a really tough language and we are left to battle through alone. Except that Peter made an appearance last night as a disembodied voice on CD. His voice was very deep which is strange as he was a tenor by trade. All I can say is, Peter come back! We need you to shout at us about Gaelic 'ts'! Ol did very well with the CD player though and turned it into a sort of rap which you should really look into recording, Peter. Gaelic rap is a little explored genre methinks.

We finished with a bit of 'Five Hebrew Love Songs' which really sound very strange without the violin and piano. Next week we are practicing this with our new violinist so Ol felt it best to have a bash through. The sopranos remembered how much they enjoyed the final note of Kala :-)

Well, we are looking towards our next concert on August 16th at St Giles. It is always fun to play the festival even if you do find that the bagpiper or shouting escapologist outside ALWAYS interrupt the quiet bits. In fact last year I seem to remember that Ol gave us a note and the bagpipes struck up in another key, its dulcet tones drifting through the hushed church. I for one followed the bagpipes, Ol's note going out of my head immediately. Was glad for Anne who sang the right key loudly and in true Rudsambee style we modulated by bar 2.

That's all for now folks. Sorry for lack of Czech reminiscences. This is due to two main reasons: (1) I haven't got my act together to gather the thoughts of the masses and (2) Rudsambee members are notoriously 'bish at actually getting their act together... this is a hint btw :-)

Enjoy the week ladies, gents, and miscellaneous others.
CSW

A late one

Well, if Claire 2 was apologising for the notes being late this week, I have to apologise for the extreme lateness of this post. No excuse so I'm not going to try!

Well, what's going on in Rudsambeeland I hear you cry! A great rehearsal on Wednesday began with a Jenny-led warm-up. For any Rudsambee members past and present you know you are going to be in for a treat when our resident zany alto takes the lead and Wednesday was no exception as we gargled our way through nursery rhymes- water and Casio keyboards don't mix apparently and fortunately we didn't have to test out this theory, though Claire 2 got dangerously close to spewing water all over our instrument of choice (the keyboard btw is like the one you had when you were a kid...with strange piano sounds and a demo you can dance to and pass off as your own composition-genius!). Perhaps another candidate for the hidden track, Ol.

We began with some more Tormis and moved on to our new Frog song. We were pondering the fate of Rudsambee frogs once again. We definitely need to find a ditty in which the frog is turned back into a handsome prince. Then we tackled our new metaphorical (though in many ways literal) hurdle 'O Bone Jesu'- that's good Jesus, not bony Jesus btw. This is by the Scottish Tallis, Carver and is absolutely rock hard (man, I haven't used that expression since I left junior school). We struggled our way through trying to work out why on earth anyone would throw time changes so liberally throughout a work. Apparently, the original was for nineteen voices. Blimey! Glad we are only doing it in six! We'll battle on with this one as we are doing it at the National Library in the autumn.

Anyways, a good rehearsal all in. As promised to AL (and all others who appreciate the value of beautiful, heart rendering (can anything else 'render'?) music) (Ooo a double parenthesis- did you keep up there?), here is Harry Hill's poignant song, 'The Queen is Pregnant' written just in case this happy event should happen again. It is a victorious song of royalist devotion. Seriously I very nearly fell over when I heard this for the first time- laugh...like a drain!
http://www.harry-hill.tv/audio.html (look bottom left and click)

Until next week...
CSW

More Tormis...

Evening folks,


Welcome to our weekly blog update. Another jolly night on Wednesday. We continued with our excursion through the canon of Estonia's favourite import. We really are beginning to develop a liking for this Tormis stuff. One particularly fun new piece is Kanarbik (Estonian for 'heather' don't you know). Though you would imagine a piece called 'heather' to be a peaceful celebration of the delights of the Scottish countryside, it is actually quite a dramatic piece about the "sad purple heatherbell" that "frantically blazes". Exciting stuff! Ollie threatened that if the basses didn't sing the solo line nicely then he would sing it as he does it particularly well. Fortunately our warrior lower line rose to the challenge so that particular Tenor v Bass battle was assuaged.




We also began a fun song about a frog that was eaten by a crow. In Rudsambee songs the frog (or rather any amphibious or is it reptilian creature) never does very well (cf the Pudduck). This is no exception - one day the small slimy (actually they aren't slimy at all) animals will take over the world and those who have suppressed them for years will have only themselves to blame. Anyways, I am particularly chuffed with this one as it contains five or six key changes. Yey! I love a good key change. My top is always Genesis 'Invisible Touch' which is seriously brilliant. You can feel it coming for about half an hour... rather like a burp actually. Apologies for the analogy. So '80s pop music hits Rudsambee... or maybe not.
Hope everyone is having a great week.
CSW

Back to rehearsals

Well, after our jollies in the Czech Republic we are now back to work in Rudsambee with a great load of new music. Veljo Tormis dominated last night, and may continue to do so. My favourite is definitely the wacky 'Ronis harg kuuse otsa' (or for those without fluent Estonian, 'The Ox Climbed a Fir Tree') which discusses the plight of an ox who climbed a tree (clue is in the name huh?) in mittens and boots. Tormis' lyrics are as weird and wonderful as those on the second best album ever made Abbey Road. Think Octopus' Garden with a Baltic twist - nice!


We also began our work on a couple of jolly Gaelic songs. We definitely missed Peter's linguistic skill but it all sounded rather nice. Arvo Pärt's O Morganstern was also on the agenda last night. Now, imagine that you are singing two completely different songs with different keys, rhythms etc... put them together and hey presto! you have O Morganstern. Advice given by Ollie for both this and the Ox: Don't, under any circumstances, listen to anyone else in the rest of the choir. Sing with your fingers in your ears if necessary. You should hear this (difficult perhaps with your fingers in your ears so remove them for a moment please)! There is actually a moment when it sounds like a normal (ish) song but this only lasts two bars and the final bar is very peculiar. The sopranos made faces at each other... although this isn't realyl unusual, it must be said.


Also of note last night was the return of Kay. It should be minuted that actually she didn't miss a rehearsal, due to our month's break. Dedication to the cause, Kay! It is great to have you back and we are pretty sure that Baby will be fluent in Hebrew, adept at Estonian cat sounds and able to hit the top note in 'O Magnum Mysterium'. We are actually looking for a bass... maybe it is a bit soon.


Anyways, that's all for now. More Czech stories coming very soon...

CSW


[Chris says] No sign of the Ox or the Pärt, but here's one of the other Tormis pieces we were making a start on:

Douglas' Czech story

Further to my request for stories from our recent trip, I am pleased to share Douglas' little tale. Well, rumours did go round the following day and I can confirm that Douglas did indeed go skinny dipping in the host's garden pool after the concert. His email to me posed the question "can anyone beat this?" No, Douglas I don't think they can! Sadly, despite Chris' David Bailey-esque efforts, there are no photographs of this event. On second thoughts, this might be best without any pictorial evidence. I am sure Jean would agree. Thanks for starting the metaphorical ball rolling Douglas. You are indeed a man of many (sometimes surprising) facets.

Enjoy the weekend ladies and gents

CSW

Back and ready for some Czech Stories

Hello again folks. Well the scribe has returned from over the pond. This isn't my own private blog so I promise to refrain from telling New York stories except to say that on our first night there we went to see the legend that is Les Paul play at the Iridium Jazz club. He was amazing (if I am as sprightly as him at 93 I will be a happy girlie) but in the middle of his set what should he play but my favourite (see previous blog post) song the "Tennessee Waltz'. As you can imagine I found it pretty difficult to keep a straight face. It was a little different from our Czech friend's rendition!

It would be great to start posting stories and memories of our Czech trip up here on the blog over the next few weeks, so Rudsambee members (and others of course) this is your chance to share your thoughts with the world (ok so that sounds a little grand but trust me it is quite liberating). Just drop stories, quips and general comments to my email and we'll put them up.

Rudsambee have a couple of weeks off for good behaviour but we'll be back rehearsing next week, preparing for our August concert.

Before I sign off I do feel it is important at this juncture to say a huge THANK YOU to Anne for organising our trip. We all had a really amazing time and it was largely due to Anne's planning. When she finally left us to enjoy a well earned break in Prague we stood on the platform for quarter of hour (seriously) trying to decide what to do next. I need say no more. Anne, you are the best!

so long for now
CSW

Just a quickie

Jan, who was our substitute Aaron (i.e. violinist) in Susice has posted a video of the Five Hebrew Love songs. Woo!

Czech-ing in again.

Well, we are back after a great time in Sušice. Although some are staying on for more Fun Holiday Time In Europe - lucky beggars. Goodness! whoever would have thought that we could have eaten, drunk, sung, laughed and listened to Tennessee Waltz so much.

Our friends in the Czech Republic were wonderful and the concert (OK, so this is probably the key thing to mention guess) went so well that we got a standing ovation of all things. Well there is nowhere else to go in our artistic career so I reckon we should all just retire now. [Chris says: Last time we had such a fabulous concert, the then-Director announced immediately afterwards that she was leaving. Um, please don't leave, Ollie?]

Anyways, I am jet-setting off to NY city today (showbiz eh?) so I might be out of connection though, as hubbie reminded me there will be t'internet in NY... we're not heading for Beirut, though I guess in this day and age even Beirut has a perfectly good connection.

So you will be treated to the delights of our blog editor Christopher who will be posting some of his photos this week. Be warned he has about two (and a half) thousand to sift through - it may take some time. So grab a cuppa (a proper cuppa I mean, in a tea pot, with milk), sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of Rudsambee in the Czech Republic 2008.

signing out
CSW

So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, goodbye

Well folks,
This is the final night before we head off to the Czech Republic. Hopefully we have all packed our necessities and are ready to go. We set off at an extremely early hour tomorrow morning so think of us meeting at Easter Road at 5.40 (yes you heard right) in the morning. Tune back in on Sunday night for a quick update and then (probably) throughout the week for some jolly photos courtesy of the esteemed editor.

So a final Czech language class for your perusal.
If you want to 'beat around the bush' in the Czech Republic, you would say 'Chodit kolem horké kaše' which literally means 'to walk around hot porridge'. Genius...what an image!
And with that I bid a fond adieu- 'til Sunday.

CSW

Goodness that was quick: baby watch and some more Czech

Morning all,
Well if you were to find an old wife and ask her to explain the key ways to bring on labour she may well tell you that hot curry works well, or a trip in a mini over cobbles (my mother's chosen method) or a long walk. However, a full day of recording with Rudsambee is the latest way to get that kiddo going. Welcome to the world, our newest affiliate member: Kay had a wee boy on Sunday morning. Just goes to show the power of a quick Tormis number! Congrats lady.

A second installment of our Czech vocab book. I thought I would today provide some useful info if you happen to meet a lovely Czech lady or gentleman:
You are my sweetheart: Jsi můj miláček. (the middle word sounds like 'mu-ey')
Will you marry me: Vezmeš si mě?
You're beautiful: Jsi krásná (the first word drops the 'j')

Well hope that is useful. Tune in tomorrow for our final post before we travel.

CSW

It's all done!

Well, Saturday came and (eventually) went. A very long day but we managed to complete our recording. It may have been sunny outside (at least for part of the day) but St Peter's, as usual, had its own unique climate. In fact if global warming ever gets so bad that Edinburgh is transformed into a desert landscape I really feel that those in the know will congregate in this building to escape the heat. The day started in an interesting way with our recording of 'Geographical Fugue'; one take ended with the exclamation 'oh pants' which is never a good sign but often an appropriate response to this piece of 'music'. Got it sorted eventually though and Susan and I giggled at the thought that we (the two sops) have only ever got this piece completely right twice- the first was the concert at Canongate Kirk last year and the second was the final take on Saturday. We smiled at our diva tendencies to only get it right when it matters ;-)

After a few bum notes, lots of stretching (man, standing up for eight hours is tough on the back) and, most of all, some great singing it was in the can (is that the right expression?...I am new to this recording artist business). Now poor old Helen just has to edit the whole thing...good luck with that! Oh and what are the chances that on the day Rudsambee want to record, a helicopter spends all day flying backwards and forwards over the church. If you were flying this thing beware- you are now on the Rudsambee hit list (otherwise known as the Chris-will-tickle-you-until-you-pass-out list).

Anyways, only two more sleeps until we hit the Czech Republic. A few of our number have left for the continent today (hope you are having a great time guys!). So I thought I would update the blog each day before then with a few Czech phrases and points of interest that might help. So a couple of phrases...

Nice to meet you: Těší mě (jeshi m-na)
I'll have a beer please: Dám si jedno pivo prosím (actually this sounds exactly as you would imagine. Good on the Czechs for simplifying where needed!)
Would you like to dance?: Smím prosit?

But I couldn't finish this post without mentioning the difference between British and Czech underground/subway announcements. In Britain (actually I'm basing this observation on London) a polite lady tells us to 'please mind the gap' and to 'please mind the doors'. In the Czech Republic apparently the announcer says something like this...Ukončete výstup a nástup, dveře se zavírají! which means 'Finish exiting and boarding the train, the doors are closing!' So much more direct than we are! Basically 'stop dilly-dallying around you fool and get off before you lose a body part in the closing door'. Fabulous- I love it.

Anyways (this is the final 'anyways') must just mention Kay who is due to have the baby sometime in the next week. She amazingly managed nearly the whole recording session. I'm pretty sure this baby will come out with the rhythms for 'Hide and Seek' already down! Much love and all the best for the next couple of weeks Kay. We'll miss you. Of course she isn't the only member of our group to be expecting. Rachel and Jake are also waiting on a wee one so I'll add a 'baby watch' entry when we have news.

Over and out until our second Czech culture report tomorrow
CSW

p.s. in answer to Chris' (my esteemed editor's) inserted comment of last post, no this diva will not be setting fire to any tables...sadly...barring any accident...

Looking forward to Susice!

Well folks, our friends at Shrewsbury Cantata Choir (incidentally, Anne surpassed herself with our new tour 'plan-of-action' and is at least as organised as that of her Shrewsbury equivalent: apparently we are leaving Susice at 10.17 on Sunday morning... I kid not - this is the time on my programme!) sent us a lovely report of the recent time with Svatabor so I thought I'd share a wee bit with the blogging world.

"If you stay in Prague, they sell a cocktail named B52 (Kahlua, Baileys and Absinthe) which is served with a book of matches. Our Soprana Suprema managed to set light to a table in a bar off Wenceslas Square!"
[Chris says: I wonder if our Diva Mrs Warden will do something similar?]

I can't imagine that anyone in Rudsambee requires such a beverage. We don't want any dancing on the tables and Jenny and fire would be a potent mix I should think. Czech tour countdown is on!

Saturday is our final day of recording so remember us freezing in a chilly church desperately trying to sing one version of 'Dindirin' that doesn't have an ambulance/birdsong/the screams of excitable football fans in the background- showbiz eh?

Signing out
CSW

Pretty in Pink

Good evening gentlefolks.

A short (I hope) post just to let you know about the current uniform crisis to hit Rudsambee. For anyone who has been involved in the group over the years you will be well aware of the 'uniform controversy' which actually caused a number of people to almost loose their sanity. What indeed should Rudsambee wear for concerts? Well we've tried "Citrus and Honey", tartan accessories, blue and green, red and green (Christmas only- the yuletide tree look is very in, don't you know) and some rather fabulous t-shirts. As a result we have ended up with a Rudsambee wardrobe that is considerably bigger that our own everyday collections. I myself have three blue shirts of various styles including a shiny turquoise one that Chris likes.

Recently (after the longest discussion ever - I am eternally glad that we do not have to solve the crises of the world) we have moved to black with red accessories for the ladies (note to self - I really must buy a 'red something' that isn't my usual scarf for our Czech tour - wool is all very well for Rosslyn in Winter but for Susice in Summer?) and red shirts for the gentlemen (dyed I seem to remember by either Jenny or Susan [Chris says: thanks a bunch, I spent weeks on those bloody things]). Of course our tenors and basses always look very dashing but gradually the shirts have faded and Ollie in particular is now sporting a very fetching shade of pink. In fact they are so pink as to draw the attention of Scotland's premier newsreader David Robertson who we shared a stage with in Glasgow at Christmas. I seem to remember he made a sarcastic (but sadly accurate) comment about pink and girls. He even sniggered as I recall. We would re-dye the shirts but the company no longer make the right shade and the cost has gone up. So for the foreseeable future our gentlemen will continue to wear pink. I for one think they look really rather marvellous :-)

CSW

'I don't bother chasing mice around'

Well, another Wednesday, another Rudsambee rehearsal and as always much to report.


There has been a running theme of nursery rhymes during warmups over the past few weeks. Tonight was no exception as Ollie led us in a rousing rendition of This Old Man and Michael Finnegan... combined... in a round! Some dispute over the lyrics to the latter: apparently there are multiple verses. Goodness, I never realised that these old rhymes were so multi-faceted... wouldn't surprise me if they were constructed in a weird time signature. 14/8, perhaps?


Anyways, we continued with our preparation for the recording. We have a big day coming up on the 14th June when we are back to St Peter's for our final day 'in the studio'. Rather frighteningly we are starting the day at 9.30 with Ernst Toch's Geographical Fugue - now that's a wake up call! If you don't know this piece then check it out! Why haven't MTV cottoned on to this! We are loving the video especially.



The title of the blog post is taken from the rather brilliant Stray Cat Strut. Generally this song is sung late at night usually after some of the members of our group (who should know better) have had one a few too many shandies. Hence it is, more often than not, a shambles; we are trying to get a bit more accuracy into it for the official version.

Our evening finished off with two key insights into Rudsambee life. Firstly, to Japanese beans (I know, that wasn't what you were expecting huh?) which Helen described in brutal detail... I think mucus came into it somewhere... not literally of course (although...). Ollie was persuaded that they would taste 'rather like the smell of a fart'. Well that really gets you thinking! We are nothing if not educational at Relative Pitch. Reminded me of parma violets which taste like the smell of old ladies' soap [Chris says: Parma Violets taste of old ladies!]

Secondly, Ollie proceeded to tell us about his week's 'phone problems. He was trying to ring a friend and only ever connected to the O₂ lady (imagine, if you will, if you had embarked upon a disastrous relationship with said lady which ended tragically. Every time you rang a friend who was out you would be connected to the dulcet tones {Moment of pondering: what else is described as dulcet? Hm.} of the one who broke your heart... gutting! You'd just never get over it. I guess it could be a similar problem for the exes of the speaking clock man, or the station announcer, or the young lady who gives the recorded safety advice on RyanAir - this musing is from an original idea by our illustrious Director, who has had far too much time to think in the last week apparently). Well anyway, Ollie was trying to ring a friend. Now the English language is a funny old thing which led us to consider what would happen if you tried to wring your friend. Mangles are now out of fashion (due I think to the advent of the tumble dryer... a mangle is surely the Al Gore option in this day and age) but it left us with an interesting, if potentially painful, image.

Anyways, it is late and this wee blogger needs to get some rest. Prog-rockers Yes may have cancelled their tour due to illness this evening, but Rudsambee are counting down the days until their Czech gig!


CSW