ABERTILLERY ORPHEUS MALE CHOIR

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Saturday 3rd July 2010

"Almost by Royal Appointment"

The Abertillery Orpheus Male Choir rubbed shoulders with members and friends of the "Royal Circle" on Saturday 3rd July at St. Edmund's Church, Crickhowell. At the request of former Royal Equerry and Welsh Guard Officer Mark Dyer and family, the choir were invited to sing at his wedding to Texan heiress Miss Amanda Kline. This was Mark's second attempt at marrying his bride-to-be as the first attempt was unfortunately postponed due to some rather unpleasant volcanic residue from our Icelandic friends up North! The proceedings began for the choir upon entering the church when pleasantries were exchanged with one of the four ushers. "Was it planned that you'd all be wearing the same outfit today?" came the comment from his Royal Highness Prince Harry! The Prince, a long time friend of Mark Dyer cordially obliged his comrade in not only participating as an usher but also as one of the Guest Readers at the Service. Under the Musical Directorship of Mr. Steven Bard, the choir had practiced a repertoire fit for the occasion and pre-service music included Welsh Hymns "Rachie" and "Gwahoddiad" along with songs from the shows "Bring Him Home" and "Do you hear the people sing" from "Les Miserables" along with "Anthem from Chess". When the service was in it's final throes, the choir gathered to face the congregation to sing "Shenendoah" thus ensuring the Texan visitors were made welcome. They then sang "Myfanwy" completing the repertoire as a special request by Mark whilst he signed the register with his new wife. When the signing was complete, the choir had a small surprise in store for our newly married bridegroom as a gentle reminder that all good men can't stray too far from the "better half" of any relationship. Whilst the newlyweds returned from the signing, the choir gave a rendition of "The Eyes of Texas Are Upon You" and not only had our bridegroom just signed his bachelorhood away but also he got a reminder of things to come! Looking temporarily stunned, Mr. Dyer could not escape the laughter and appreciation the congregation emitted on such a fine and fitting choice for the occasion. There was no escape and he had to take it like a man! This was the end of the day………or was it? As the wedding party and congregation exited the church, a wee small 6' 5" former England International Rugby Centre made his way to the choir and duly asked for a blast of "Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau" for old time sake. Will Greenwood may have broken Welsh Hearts on the rugby field but he wasn't going to beat Abertillery at singing today! With enormous appreciation for the choir, Will stood in "Centre" Aisle facing his adversaries then listened and applauded whilst collective diaphragms blasted this great tune. A great accolade from an Englishman and a fitting end to a wonderful ceremony! Well done Abertillery Orpheus and long term marital success to Mark and Amanda.

Thank you for inviting us.

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