It’s been a long time since I have been out to a concert so when Susie from the Grimsby Philharmonic Society invited me to their concert “Christmas with the Phil & Friends” I was really excited.

Grimsby Philharmonic Society are a long-established choir of around 80 singers. Headed up by Chorus Master Susan Hollingwith. They perform three concerts per season at the wonderful Central Hall and I was really looking forward to heading down to see them with John on the 15th December.

Joined by the DRET Grimsby All Stars who were lead by Jenny Trattles and Camille Maalawy who were absolutley fantastic, a really talented group of children who performed their songs amazingly.

We were treated to a repetoir of carols during the concert ranging from the well-loved such as O Little Town of Bethlehem and Silent Night (one of my favourite carols) to others I’d not heard before such as a Finnish Oik and Star Carol.

Sophie Poole performed two lovely songs How Beautiful Are the Feet and The Little Road to Bethlehem, which were beautifully sung.

The audience even had their own chance to join in with some of the songs, which was a lovely touch. Following the concert the audience were invited for drinks and mince pies and I had to chance to speak with Susan.

We both really enjoyed the performances, it was a real Christmas treat and would definitely recommend heading to see the Grimsby Philharmonic Society perform.

Their next concert is on the 25th April at the Central Hall and this time it will be The Sounds of Africa! I’m very much looking forward to this one.

G x