Approximately 80 people - plus two dogs - took part in a recent recording of the BBC Songs of Praise programme in Cornwall.
The location was the scenic and renowned St Winwaloe Church at Gunwalloe's Church Cove, where television series such as Poldark and Doc Martin have also been filmed.
The church is known as ‘The Church of the Storms’ and the TV crew commented that the weather during their stay had definitely been four seasons in a day.
Fortunately, the congregation managed to get to the church at lunchtime in between the showers, but the crew based outside the church must have got quite wet during the afternoon.
Senior producer Karen Hannah welcomed everyone and introduced Songs of Praise presenter Claire McCollum, before explaining how things would be filmed.
Hymns such as ‘I, the Lord of Sea and Sky’ and ‘Will Your Anchor Hold’ were recorded, so there was definitely a sea theme which was very appropriate for the location.
Thanks to having had two rehearsals in the preceding weeks, along with the inspiring leadership given by conductor Andrew Woods up in the pulpit, and the excellent keyboard playing by Ann Bradbury - together with there being representatives of choirs including An Lysardh Christmas Choir, The Pr’alla Singers, St Mellanus Singers and Kernow Voices in the congregation - it didn’t take too long to achieve some great recordings.
A number of choirs took part in the congregation (Image: BBC)
There was a round of applause for Andrew, Ann and the crew, before the congregation made their way home - feeling rather hoarse and stiff after a long but interesting and enjoyable afternoon, and with the lyrics and tunes of the four hymns still in their heads.
Thanks have been given to the following people:
- Ann Bradbury for not only being the accompanist but also doing all the admin.
- Andrew Woods for organising the rehearsals, and providing musical instruction as well as conducting.
- Gunwalloe Church for hosting the event.
- The team of volunteers who cleaned the church beforehand.
- St Mellanus Church in Mullion for allowing rehearsals there.
A special thank you has been given to the production team at CTVC, led by producer Karen Hannah and assistant producer Anna Matthews, for their work both on the day and behind the scenes, with their professionalism, friendly manner and kindness said to be greatly appreciated.
The provisional date for the broadcast is Sunday, September 22 although this may change.
Up to date information will be given on the 'BBC Songs of Praise' Facebook page.
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