The Jambouree Cabaret Singers and Junior Choirs delighted the audience at St Leonard’s in the Field’s Church in Perth with their enchanting Summer Concert on Sunday, 11th June 2023. Led by the talented Musical Director, Edna Auld, the performance showcased a wide-ranging programme, including beloved classics and popular favorites. The concert was a resounding success, leaving the audience captivated and inspired.

The programme offered many old familiar “chestnuts,” setting the stage for an afternoon of nostalgic charm and musical delight.

There were lots of Classic opera favourites too, with notable performances included “Voi che sapete” and “Non piu andrai,” demonstrating the versatility and vocal prowess the choirs most talented soloists.

A standout moment of the concert was the galloping Cabaret Singers’ account of “Ascot Races.” Somehow the Juniors found a way to join in – thanks once again to inspired choreography from Gwen Boswell.

The audience was treated to a breathtaking rendition of Saint Saëns’ “The Swan,” with Michelle Campbell showcasing her exceptional talent on the cello. The hauntingly beautiful performance left a lasting impression on all who attended.

The Jambouree Cabaret Singers and Junior Choirs’ Summer Concert featured a remarkable lineup of soloists whose contributions are a hallmark of the Perth based choir.

David Thomson’s commanding presence and remarkable vocal range, delivered a memorable performances that captivated the audience. In duet with soprano Gillian Munro, the couple’s vocal agility was more than matched by their footwork as they skipped through popular numbers from The Gilbert and Sullivan operettas.

Pavlina ivanova and her sister Tanya left the spellbound with their classical arias.

Kenneth Maciver’s resonant voice enchanted the audience, drawing them into the emotional depths of each song – but also, with great comic timing, Kenneth’s telling of George Duffs’ Scots poem ‘The Rumour’ – was a masterclass in the Scots language.

Bill’s expressive rendition of the “Surrey with etc Fringe on Top” demonstrated great storytelling ability and added a touch of theatre to the concert, captivating everyone present.

Marilyn Taylor and David Thomson’s triumphant performance of Stephen Adam’s “The Holy City”, the aria mentioned in James Joyce’s famous novel Ulysses and made famous by Jeanette MacDonald in the 1936 hit movie San Francisco, brought much acclaim. It was a particularly poignant moment for the choir’s Patron, Frances Farr, who recalled performing it so many times in years gone by.

Iona Melloy, a recent medal winner at Perform in Perth, thrilled the audience with her crystal-clear vocals and dynamic stage presence left a lasting impression. Duetting with with Shannon McKinney, there voices were inseparable – the work of their many years of musical partnership.

In a powerful climax, the Ivanova sisters joined Jambouree Junior, Evelina, as she sang the National Anthem of Ukraine.

The success of the concert would not have been possible without the guidance and expertise of the Musical Director, Edna Auld. Edna’s meticulous attention to detail, passion for music, and ability to inspire the choirs was evident throughout the performance. Her dedication and leadership ensured a cohesive and harmonious musical journey for both the Jambouree Cabaret Singers and Junior Choirs.

Well done to all for a great concert.