2002, History and other events

Two new works: Beyond that of any Man and Merrie England (adapted) preceded a return of Elijah, first performed by DVS in 1993. Merrie England was turned into an Elizabethan romp with the chorus as a pack of cards, a challenging costume. Elijah finished the year on a high with performances including our first of many with the Preston Symphony Orchestra. We donated $2500 to charity, raising $77,300 so far.

The first social event was a barbecue at the Morgans' in Cottlesbridge, which was well attended. In spite of the ordinary weather, many of the kids went swimming.

During Merrie England Nancy Cornwallis, who had moved to Heathcote, set up a talent quest there, and invited Ian and Graham to adjudicate, which was a first for both.

At the annual Diamond Valley Eisteddfod, members excelled themselves by taking all three places in the Ballad Second; Steven Touzel, Lesley Walton and Diane Morgan.

At the AGM Michael Try was awarded Life Membership. After several years as secretary and a variety of roles, as tenor soloist, director and conductor, he was taking up a teaching position in Japan. During his period with DVS, he had taken time off to do a music degree at Melba Conservatorium and had also been unable to perform with us while performing with Opera Australia, and was greatly missed.

Susanna Wailes was asked to conduct the carols that year, with Robyn Ford and Lucas Richter, who were doing a conducting course at the time, to conduct some carols under her leadership. It was a strange group - at one rehearsal there were eight tenors and five sopranos! We performed at the Diamond Creek carols, Ivanhoe Boulevard and Grassy Flats, followed by the traditional supper at Judith's.