Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Church
10.00 am on Tuesday 7 th April 2026 Draft
Present – David Bayne( DB) , Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC),
Apologies Chris Dunn (CD) Copy to Lawrie Coulthard (LC), Richard Kay (RK)
Item Action
1 Apologies
CD is unable to attend this meeting however he advises that Richard Hayter has
resigned and his music folder has been returned.

SB

2 The Minutes of the March meeting were approved and signed off. TG
3 Project ”Sing when you’re winning”
 Further grant applications. Applications are in preparation by David Healy for grants from
the Rotary club and the Bramhall Trust. DB has registered with the Lottery Fund but will
defer an application for a possible repeat of SWYW as applications take over 3 months for
a decision
 Timetable for course. The course starts on Wednesday 22 nd April for 10 weeks with final
concert on Saturday 4 th July.
 Number of applicants. At the time of the meeting 53 men had shown an interest
(however RK has since updated this to say that only 23 men have formally registered.)
 Promotion of SAYW. In the meeting it was decided that flyers into letter boxes and
distribution at a football match would no longer be required. (however in the light of
RK’s feedback we need to redouble our promotion efforts and ensure that posters put up
in March are still in place)
 Project Costs. RK has provided an estimate of £2705 for venue hire, music copies,
publicity, printing costs and accompanist fees. We will in addition pay RK for his
preparation work and his normal appearance fee for each SAYW session. We need to be
prepared to give up 50% of our reserves to this existential project.
4 West Park Centre
TG and GC will revisit West Park next week to look at seating and performance space.
Benches will be supplied by the schools for the Sing Out concert.
West park applied for a £150,000 grant from the N.Yorks mayors fund and has been
granted £100,000. We have booked West Park for 6 th June and 4 th July for a fee of £200
per event.

TG

5 Treasurer Report
II has paid the accompanists up to the end of March. The pro-rata sub of one new
member was agreed and if another member returns after Easter he will be asked for his
second part-payment.
II prepared a table of income and expenditure from concerts and festivals for the current
year. We made small profits from Whixley and Boston Spa but all other performances
involved only cash out. We would hope to cover the current estimated £633 deficit from
income from the Sing Out concert. II also questioned using both accompanists at
concerts , however for the Sing Out concert it was agreed to continue inviting both of
them.
There followed a brief discussion of our choir objectives regarding concerts, festivals, the
health benefits to members and fund-raising for charity, which was deferred to a future
date when RK can be involved.

II

6 Concert secretary report
The Harrogate Choir Festival on 21 st March was deemed to be a success by RK with an
“Honours” award and third place behind an outstanding young adults choir from Leeds
and a good rock choir. We fielded 25 members (including 2 new members) which was
adequate for the occasion.
Thursday 30 th April. 2.50 pm visit to Pannal primary, assembly followed by joint choir
practice.

GC

Saturday 9 th May. Harrogate Choir Festival (evening) in Royal Hall. Fees not yet defined.
Saturday 6 th June. Annual Sing Out concert at West Park Centre
Saturday 4 th July joint concert of SWYW with HMVC at West Park centre
Sunday 11 th October. Afternoon joint concert with Eastwood Collieries MVC at Starbeck
Methodist church
We were unable to sign up to the Jo Cox charity Family Fun Day on 20 th June as we have
no accompanist available. We may be invited next year if they have the funding to cover
our costs.
7 Members Secretary Report
Since the last meeting Paul Boothman and Stewart Radford have received welcome
letters, have joined the choir and paid pro-rata subs for 5 months. Uniforms are being
organised via Robin Wilkinson. SB’s audit of choir members details will start after the
Easter break.
The attendance statistics for the 12 weeks up to end of March compared to the previous
12 weeks are as follows:-
Basses 87.5% compared to 56.9%
Baritones 70.1% compared to 76.7%
Tenor 2s 87.2% compared to 66%
Tenor 1 72% (no figure available for previous period)
The following members who have not attended this choir year were discounted from the
figures: Richard Hayter, Roger Gill, Max Ford, Neil Duncan and Robet Bickford. John
Melanaphy and David Bainbridge were discounted for the last 12 weeks.
John Melanaphy and Neil Duncan are not expected to return until next choir year, Roger
Gill and David Bainbridge may return sooner.

SB

8 Social
The social scheduled for 20 th March was cancelled due to lack of interest. We will look for
an alternative date in the autumn when some new members may be available.

TG

9 Singing in care homes
This subject has been somewhat overtaken by SAYW and will be addressed next session
DB

10 Practice tracks and Google drive
Not enough members are using the practice tracks , sometimes due to lack of access to
Google Drive or confusion about how to use it. We need to issue some guidance for this.

Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Church
10.00 am on Tuesday 3rd March 2026 FINAL
Present – David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG),
Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC (GC) Copies to Richard Kay (RK),Lawrie Coulthard (LC)
Item Actio
n
1 The minutes of the March meeting were approved and signed off TG
2 Project ”Sing when you’re winning”
The application for a grant from North Yorkshire & York council’s Men’s Health fund was
unfortunately declined. Other sources of funds are being sought including Rotary Club, the
Bramhall Trust and other local government sources.
Although other choir’s projects have asked for a joining fee or donation from participants,
it was felt that the course had been advertised as “free of charge” and any donations
should be totally voluntary. Our reserves will cover the cost of the course including a
payment to RK in addition to his expenses. Our reserves are there to ensure the
continuation of the choir.
The course will begin on Wednesday 22 nd April and continue until Wednesday 1 st July with a
joint concert with HMVC at West ark centre on Saturday 4 th July.
15 choir members have volunteered to promote the project (in addition to committee
members) and RK has briefed them via a google drive dedicated to SWYW. Proposed and
completed actions should be posted on the task list on the drive to co-ordinate coverage
and prevent duplication.
At the time of the committee meeting, 15 men had registered interest (in addition to our 3
latest potential members). This makes our target of 40 participants by end of April look
feasible.
At St Roberts social club, there is no disabled access to the upstairs room. The piano is
available to us and is of adequate standard. Although David Mawson is not available for
the first session, RK is able to take this on his own. We have still to see St Robert’s
safeguarding policy.
TG has visited the Harrogate branch of Andy’s Man Club who are co-operating on the
project but he missed the start of their session before participants split into groups. He will
next go to the Knaresborough branch at7pm.
The committee approved the press release and the FAQ sheet, with a couple of additions.
3 West Park Centre capacity
RG and GC have still to re-visit West Park together to confirm the capacity for the annual
Sing Out concert. The primary school choirs will bring about 120 children who will need
extra benches from one of the schools to seat the all. The schools have requested
confirmation of the venue.

TG/G
C

4 Treasurer Report
One £75 sub contribution is still missing. Although the person in question has resigned he
may come back after Easter. We assume Max Ford and Robert Bickford will not return but
we will hold off making a presentation to Robert for the moment.
2 new members who have completed their probationary period will be asked for a pro-
rata sub from 1 st April until end of June. We will of course subsidise their uniforms as per
policy.
At the time of meeting, the income from the Boston Spa concert was £1577, costs £711
incl. fees to HMVC and Rodillians leaving £866 for Martin House hospice. However the
donation was revised upwards to £1400 after £492 ticket sales by the Rodillians was
added.
It was noted that the card reader machine did not function at the church, but fortunately
all tickets sold at the door were paid in cash. The machine now appears to be working. It
was discussed whether printed tickets are still relevant in this day and age and whether
on-line tickets should be offed.

II

5 Concert secretary report
The attendance of choir members at the Boston Spa was adequate and we were able to
perform our songs to a full house to RK’s satisfaction. The difficult movements of HMVC
between the stage and balcony went well enough and we received positive feedback from
audience members. Although we were 2 members less at the York Choir Festival, we again
managed our 5 songs well enough and were appreciated by the audience.
Our next performances are
Saturday 21 st March. Harrogate Competitive Festival. The venue has changed from
St Mark’s church to Harrogate High School and our class starts at 2pm.
Thursday 30 th April. Afternoon Visit to Pannal primary, assembly followed by joint choir
practice.
Saturday 9 th May. Harrogate Choir Festival (evening) in Royal Hall
Saturday 6 th June. Annual Sing Out concert at West Park Centre
Saturday 20 th June. Jo Cox charity Family Fun Day. Request to be put to members this
evening.
Saturday 4 th July joint concert of SWYW with HMVC at West Park centre
Sunday 11 th October. Afternoon joint concert with Eastwood Collieries MVC at Starbeck
Methodist church.

GC

6 Members Secretary Report
The status of members who are no longer attending was discussed in (4) above.
SB will conduct an individual review of all members details (address, telephone numbers,
next of kin) using extracts of the last record sealed into envelopes.
The essential confidential record to be carried by first-aiders will then be updated.
DB emphasised that this record must be taken to all performance venues and to all
rehearsals in case of accidents or illness.

SB

7 Promotion of HMVC concerts
The work done by LC (and the church) in promoting the Boston Spa concert resulted in a
nearly-full house. This contrasts with other poorly-promoted concerts where performers
have outnumbered audience. If we cannot find a promotions officer we may have to
appoint a person to organise advertising, tickets and flyers for each concert.
8 Social
Will take place at St Roberts social club on Friday 20 th March. Final attendance lists are
required this evening and payment of £18 per person by BACS is now due.
Members needing piano accompaniment should speak to David Mawson this evening.
Parking at the church has been declined but there is adequate parking on the adjacent
streets.

TG

9 Sing Out
The visit to Brackenfield school on 13 th February went well despite the music teacher being
absent and our performance time at assembly being shortened due to a communications
mix-up about end of term awards. It did mean however that we were able to sing to some
parents as well as the pupils.
The visit to Pannal school on 30 th April will be from 2.50 in the afternoon with choir
practice to follow a performance to the school.
The capacity of West Park centre is discussed in (3) above.

TG

10 Any other business
CD raised the question about how to speak to members who are singing their “own
versions” of songs and putting other singers off. It is not the duty of section reps to do
this but we should be empowered to speak to anyone who is out of sync or let RK raise the
issue.

CD

11 Next Meeting. Although we have no rehearsal on 7 th April, the committee will meet at
Woodlands Meths at 10 am on that date.

DB

Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Church
10.00 am on Tuesday 3rd February 2026 Final
Circulation – David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG),
Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC), Richard Kay (RK), Lawrie Coulthard (LC)
Item Action
1 The minutes of the January meeting were approved and signed off TG
2 Project ”Sing when you’re winning” (SWYW)
The focus of this meeting was once again SWYW. RK believes that the promotion of this
course which begins on 22 nd April should start almost right away, as soon as we have
identified volunteers and have printed the flyers and posters.
Instead of forming a sub-committee to drive actions on this project, we will use and
expand the task list formulated by RK, which is available to all volunteers and committee
members
From the task list
 We agree with RK’s latest flyer design showing himself as soloist
 Order 1000 (GC says 2000) flyers but add 100 A4 posters
 The google participant application form by RK is excellent
 We need to understand how the SWYW e-mail account will work
 Who has the link to the Bramhall Trust? Can David Healy progress this?
 Our grant application to NY council has not yet been approved but they have
until end of February to contact us.
 St Roberts is booked from 22 nd April and West Park for final concert on 4 th July (DB
to add to Choir Dates)
 II is already allocating funds for venue booking and flyer printing
 Excellent progress with Andy’s Man Club (AMC) in Harrogate. Extend to branches
in Ripon, Thirsk, and Knaresborough (no branch in Wetherby)
 DB’s mobile number has been printed on the flyers and he will answer all
telephone enquiries and agree a protocol with RK for passing on contacts to the
e-mail address and the person registering attendance at the course.
 DB will make up a form for volunteers to sign up to and display it tonight after TG
has addressed the members.
 Draft press release was not attached by RK (has since been received). Committee
members to comment ASAP
 Volunteers will be assigned to 5 districts of Harrogate, to Knaresborough, to
Ripon, and any other areas.
 Check with LC for contacts with local radio
 Complete checklist of press and radio contacts
 TG and DB will inform Social Prescribers of the SWYW course and ask to direct
patients there instead of to the choir
 As well as village halls and notice boards, flyers to be distributed to
– Barber shops
– Drop-in centres
– Leisure centres
– Golf/sports clubs
– Rotary/Round Table
– Probus clubs
– Mixed choirs

– Churches (J Melanaphy if fit enough)
. Draw up checklist of locations for volunteers
. Aim is to hand out flyers and posters to identified volunteers at a briefing before
rehearsal on 10 th February (as we are not rehearsing on 17 th Feb) – previous target was
24 th February
. Steve Hurdle may participate in SWYW and has offered to take participant’s details
. Mass distribution of flyers through letterboxes nearer the start of the course via
allocated volunteers.
. Hand out flyers at Harrogate Town FC home matches (RK proposal)
The date of the joint SWYW and HMVC concert has been set at Saturday 4 th July at West
Park centre
3 West Park Centre
The committee has approved a letter by TG in support of their application for Mayor’s
funds. We are also progressing plans to expand seating for our Sing Out concert

TG

4 Treasurer Report
December hall hire of £90 was paid and £150 was received from Holy Trinity
2 full year subs and one sub instalment are still outstanding.

II

5 Concert secretary report
13 th February 8.30 am visit to Brackenfield prep school. See (9) below
27 th February 7.30 pm Joint concert with Rodillians ladies at Boston Spa methodist church
1 st March York festival evening concert at 7.30 pm. We sing 5 songs in a 20-minute slot
and need to be there before 6.35 pm for a sound check. GC and DB will visit the venue on
8 th February. We must get out a good choir attendance despite the concert 2 days before.
21 st March Harrogate choir competition. Performance time confirmed as 2pm. We
assume venue is Harrogate High school as there is no further mention of St Martin’s
church in the syllabus.
30 th April. Afternoon visit to Pannal primary school
9 th May. Harrogate Choir Festival (invitation received and RK confirmed his availability)
6 th June Sing Out concert, now assumed to be at West Park Centre
4 th July Joint concert of SAYW with HMVC at West Park Centre
11 th October. Joint Sunday afternoon concert with Eastwood Collieries MVC

GC

6 Members Secretary Report
There is confusion over whether or not Richard Hayter has resigned
Robert Bickford is unable to sing and we need to assess whether he continues as a
member. John Melanaphy is back home recovering from a heart attack hopes to rejoin us
before too long. A “get well” card will be circulated this evening for members to sign.
Steve Hurdle will attend the SWYW course. Nigel Lister has moved to a new address.

SB

7 Promotion of HMVC concerts
We urgently need to identify a successor to LC for promotion of concerts, which must
continue separately from SWYW. Lawrie has a wide network of publicity outlets including
radio and we should use his knowledge to maximise SWYW coverage. Meanwhile LC has
made a sterling effort to promote the Boston Spa concert in Wetherby and the Church
has made a great effort to promote it within the Tadcaster Circuit (Boston, Wetherby,
Tadcaster and Collingham). Martin House refused to display our posers until we had
pasted their logo onto them (house rule). We should ensure that the logos of
beneficiaries always appear in our publicity! Now the choir needs to sell tickets as the
Rodillians are expected to bring up to 40 supporters.

?

8 Social
TG has distributed menus from 2 caterers to the committee (as St Roberts cannot do this
in-house). The room will cost £60 and for a minimum of 35 people, a main course plus
dessert will cost £16 with a room charge of £2 pr head making £18. TG will ask for a show
of hands for participants this evening.

TG

9 Sing Out
An early start is required for our performance at Brackenfield school assembly at 8.45. on
Friday 13 th February. We need to be there by 8.30 and allow for time to find parking in
adjacent streets.

TG

10 Choir dates
The list of choir dates for performances and breaks has been updated and checked by GC,
TG and RK and will now be issued to all members. Note that we have some noticeboard
space back in the Woodlands main hall.

DB

11 Next Meeting Tuesday 3 rd March at 10 am, Woodlands Meths. DB

Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Church
10.00 am on Tuesday 6th January 2026

Present – David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG),
Lawrie Coulthard (LC), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC) Copy to Richard Kay (RK)
Item Action
1 The minutes of the December meeting were approved and signed off
A matter carried over concerned the venue for the 2026 Social Evening. TG suggested
using St Robert’s social club as it has a bar and moderate prices and intends to make a
booking for Friday 13th March. Blue badge parking should be available in the church
opposite. SB commented that more consideration might have been given to Harrogate
Golf Club where last year’s successful social was held.

TG

2 Project ”Sing when you’re winning”
This was the main and urgent subject of this meeting
Organisation
Both the promotion and running of this project require capable volunteers from the
choir. A sub-committee of 4-5 people needs to be identified but the promotion of the
project will require a wider commitment. Committee members suggested 9-10 names
who might be interested and TG, GC and DB will speak to them at this evening’s
rehearsal. A committee member (in turn) should attend each of the singing sessions. A
key function will be to register attendees and collect e-mail addresses.
Presentation to Membership
The project needs to be presented to members in detail and it was decided to do this on
January 13 th from the break for as long as it takes.
DB read out a proposal from RK for the content of the presentation
Presentation points
. Need to make the choir more relevant
. Radical new project modelled on the success of other MVCs
. 10 week fixed term course from April – June pitched as a charity fundraiser for men
with little or no singing experience, culminating in a joint concert with HMVC
. No mention of HMVC or “choir” in promotion or running of the course
. Run at a different venue from HMVC
. This is a last-ditch effort to invest in the future of the choir
. Promotion begins end of February
The key paragraph of the presentation is as follows
“Alongside the agreement to commit some of our reserves, the success of the
project will be entirely dependent on how well we can publicise and recruit.
Similar projects from very similar choirs in comparable catchments show that it
is possible to attract up to 50 participants (sometimes more) but this requires
every member of the choir to be committed and proactive when it comes to
publicity. The 'support in kind' is almost more vital than the finances and we will
need boots on the ground to put up posters, distribute flyers at supermarkets,
contact news outlets, gather data etc. as well as being prepared to help with the
general organisation. We will be looking for a sub committee of volunteers to
oversee this project, but it will need everybody to go above and beyond to
promote the project, whilst not necessarily representing HMVC. There will of
course be decisions along the way that not everybody agrees with, but the united
front of positivity towards a collective goal will be the secret to success”.
Venue for Course (St Robert’s Social Club)
We have booked the downstairs room (with piano and capacity for up to 20 ) with the
option to move to a larger room upstairs. These spaces are available on Wednesday
evenings from 8th April. TG is a member here and will act as liason between HMVC and
the club, including our adherence to their rules for Health & Safety and Safeguarding.

Choice of Charity to benefit
We prefer a locally-based men’s charity even if it is part of a nation-wide franchise.
Andy’s Man Club is a UK charitable organisation that coordinates weekly peer-to-peer
support groups for men. It aims to improve mental health in men and support men at
risk of suicide. The charity organises weekly 2-hour group talking sessions at over 270
venues across the UK, led by a trained group member known as a facilitator. CD gave
some valuable information on the Harrogate branch and will pass on some connections
to TG
Dates for Course
RK has suggested 5 Wednesdays from 22 nd April a break on 27 th May then 5 Wednesdays
until 1 st June with a concert on 4/5 th July. Availability of accompanists still needs to be
checked out, but (former member) Ben might be able to help out.
Application for Grant from NYCA man’s mental health fund
The text was slightly modified in accordance with our ad hoc meeting with RK and David
Healy on 16 th December and the application was submitted by DB on 28 th December
along with the requisite attachment documents. Apart from an acknowledgement of
receipt, no further communication from NYCA has been received to date. DB will keep
the committee informed of any developments.
3 Treasurer Report
II has opened a second account for “Sing when you’re winning”. Expenditure in
December included hall hire for November, NAC membership, insurance and music
team honoraria all totalling GBP 2287. 1 expected sub in basses is still outstanding.
We received GBP 150 from Knaresborough Holy Trinity after some renegotiation due to
the very poor audience attendance. Another GBP 145 was received from the collection
concert at Woodlands Methodists. We were wrongly invoiced for 16 th December
(Woodlands concert) and this will be corrected.
II made a request for concert song lists for members to include the song library
numbers.

II

4 Concert secretary report
There have been no changes to our performance dates since December, viz
13 th February Morning visit to Brackenfield prep school
27 th February Joint concert with Rodillians ladies at Boston Spa methodist church
(BSMC)
1 st March York festival evening concert
21 st March Harrogate choir competition
30 th April Afternoon visit to Pannal primary school
9 th May. Harrogate Choir Festival (but no invitation received yet)
6 th June Sing Out concert, now assumed to be at West Park Centre
3 rd /4 th or 10 th /11 th October. Joint concert with Eastwood Collieries MVC
PS A meeting at BSMC between RK and the Rodillians MD reached an agreement about
performance spaces and the participation of Rodillians was confirmed. BSMC have
distributed our flyer in their Tadcaster Circuit newsletter.

GC

5 Members Secretary Report
SB has prepared attendance lists for section reps. which will now reflect the removal of
the names mentioned in the last report as non-attenders which now gives a total of
current members of 38, of whom four may or may not be intending to remain. They
have still been included in the current sheets so time will indicate if they are returning
to regular attendances / payment of subs. The new lists cover the first 12 weeks of 2026
which will enable a comparison to be made with last 12 weeks of attendance between
September and December of 2025.
SB has sent a letter of thanks to Bryan Johnson who joined in 2022. The photo frame
purchased on the understanding that he was a long-serving member will be retained for
future use.

SB

6 Promotion of choir and events
LC is unable to continue as promotion and marketing member and needs to relinquish
all computer-related work. He is willing to support whoever takes over this function and
the committee must urgently find a replacement. The immediate promotion tasks are
LC

for the BSMC concert in February for which LC will order posters and flyers and “Sing
when you’re winning” for which LC will order 1000 flyers.
7 Sing Out
The date for the visit to Pannal school has been finalised (see 4. Above) and RK has
issued the music to be sung with HMVC. Discussions with West End centre would
indicate that it could accommodate the anticipated number of audience and
performers, especially if the balcony can be brought back into use

TG

8 Woodlands Methodist Halls
We have been offered a return to the large hall for rehearsals at the same price as the
small hall. RK and the committee approve this move and DB will confirm with the
administrator
9 Next Meeting Tuesday 3 rd February at Woodlands Methodists DB

Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Church
10.00 am on Tuesday 9 th December 2025 FINAL
Present – David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG), Stuart Berry (SB),
George Cross (GC) Apologies – Lawrie Coulthard Copy to Richard Kay (RC), David Healy (DH)
Item Actio
n
1 TG opened the meeting emphasising the need to consider the application for a grant for
our course for new singers. The minutes of the November meeting were signed off

TG

2 Treasurer’s report
Hall hire £180 was paid for November and £217 was received from the Whixley concert
after £33 was deducted for additional hire of the “Green Room” 4 members have still not
paid subs however one is absent for medical operations and another is not expected to
return. Section reps are requested to follow up on non-payers.
II has opened a separate bank account for the proposed singing course in April-May

II

3 Concert secretary report
The Whixley concert was a success with a good audience, however our first 2 songs were
rather hesitant and needed more rehearsal. There was confusion about hire of space for
the choir to assemble and GC paid £33 to hire the room behind the stage
Saturday 13 th December 13 th Holy Trinity Knaresborough. GC visited once again to identify
the church hall as a green room. 2 disabled parking spaces were reserved for us and access
by car to drop off passengers is assured. (In the event, the concert was held in the hall as
the church roof had become unsafe after a storm)
Tuesday 16 th December. Woodlands Church. Concert in lieu of rehearsal. Full Christmas
programme, casual dress.
Friday 13 th February. Visit to Brackenfield prep school,. Morning visit for 2026 Sing Out
concert
Friday 27 th February. Boston Spa Methodist Church. Joint concert with Rodilians ladies’
choir. Rodilians have formally confirmed and expect to bring 40 members which poses a
problem for performance space.
Sunday 1 st March. York choir festival, Rowntree Theatre. 20 minute slot to sing.
Saturday 21 st March, Harrogate competitive festival, St Mark’s church. afternoon session
Thursday 30 th April. Afternoon visit to Pannal primary school for 2026 Sing Out concert
Saturday 9 th May. Harrogate community choir festival. Awaiting formal invitation.
Saturday 6 th June, annual Sing Out concert. Venue probably West Park centre.
October 2026. Concert with Eastwood Colliery MVC of Nottingham. Dates are 3 rd /4 th or
10 th /11 th October. An afternoon concert is preferred to allow for travel back to Notts.
Starbeck Meths could fit this into their monthly music programme but if an afternoon
concert does not suit them, we could use West Park.

GC

4 Members Secretary Report
Bryan Johnson has formally resigned from the choir on the grounds of ill-health and Steve
Hurdle (T2) has joined. The attendance statistics are distorted by inclusion in the section
reps. forms of members who have resigned or who attend only sporadically. We should
not include members who have not or are not expected to pay subs this year and section
reps will be asked to revise their attendance sheets accordingly. Tenor 1 figures are not
available yet, but the attendance figures for the 12 weeks September to December
compared to the 12 weeks April to June 2025 are given below.
Sept. – Dec April- June
Tenor 2 66.6% 73.6%
Baritones 76.7% 68.8%
Basses 56.9% 47.7%
SB also investigated the possibility of a men’s choral singing class as part of their night
school programme. This could still be included in the summer term 2026. However night
classes are only run on week days and RK would only be available at weekends.

SB

5 Promotion of Concerts (Report provided) LC

Whixley 22 nd November. Liased with Rita Lister to include 2 other performers and
provided input for posters. Despite tickets priced at £15, the concert was a success.
Knaresborough 13 th December. Early posters and tickets had advertised a start at 7pm but
this was later revised by the church wardens to 7.30pm. LC and RK provided input for
posters which were distributed by LC and Trevor throughout Knaresborough
As we could not entertain at the Boston Spa Methodist Xmas tree festival on this date, LC
has arranged to sing solo with backing tapes in the afternoon.
Woodlands 16 th December. LC prepared a poster for publication in the church news and
website and along with choir colleagues, distributed them in the local area, as well as in
Wetherby and The Manor residential home.
Boston Spa methodists, Friday 27 th February. Joint concert with Rodilians in aid of Martin
House. Poster to include ticket availability from Rodilians and HMVC with QR codes. BSMC
will promote via parish news and Rodilians will promote on Facebook. LC has contacted
Martin House for promotional assistance and info on their logo. RK has generated a first
draft of poster/flyer using AI. As noted above, Rodilians may bring as many as 40 singers
from Wakefield. Use of online ticketing was discussed by the committee but was deferred
until the next meeting.
6 Recruitment. New singer campaign
St Roberts social club has been provisionally booked for this 10 week course. A source of a
grant has been identified by RK namely North Yorkshire men’s mental health fund. RK and
David Healy (DH) have drafted a excellent project description with objectives etc, have
defined the impact and legacy our project will have and have provided an analysis of the
full costs. The risks to success have been defined along with our experience and capacity
to deliver and monitor the success of the project, using Sing Out as an example.
The committee considered the document and have requested a meeting with RK and DH
on 16 th December to address a list of questions formulated by DB before the concert.
Documents such as policies for safeguarding, health and safety together with our annual
accounts need to be attached. The application has to be made by Friday 2 nd January at the
latest. The target attendance of the course was given as 40 with possible 20 people
progressing on to other support organisations. We still have to identify a men’s charity as
partner/ beneficiary and several were discussed.
It was agreed that DB should front up the application and make the formal application
after RK and DH have updated the text and the required documents have been prepared.
The project has not yet been presented to the full membership and we need to seek
volunteers for the proposed sub-committee as well as for promotion of the course.
It was proposed to do this before the rehearsal on 13 th January
7 Website and Google Drive
There have been no new developments here. RK has trialled AI to design posters.

RK

8 Sing Out 2026 schools update
(Postscript) Pannal school has agreed to a school visit for a choir performance at assembly
and a session with the school choir on the afternoon of Thursday 30 th April
GC and TG visited Spofforth primary school with a view to including Spofforth and Follifoot
in Sing Out 2027 along with Richard Taylor school.

TG

9 Choir social
St Roberts social club would be available for our social, with a charge for a Saturday night
of £90 or £60 for a Friday night. The club has no catering so this would have to be ordered
externally, however there is a bar, which a majority of the committee would wish for. We
should attempt to promote some mixing of people instead of being anchored to a specific
table. TG suggested 13 th /14 th March if RK is available.

TG

10 Singing ability
CD raised the question of how to politely correct adjacent singers if they are off-key or too
loud. We should be able to speak to colleagues without them taking offence, or ask RK to
go over a line or page where the section is not all together

CD

11 Next Meeting (A special meeting to discuss the Singing Cours grant application to include
Richard and David Healey would be held at 6:15 before the Woodlands Concert on Grant
Application for singing course) The course will be the primary focus of the next
Committee meeting on Tuesday 6 th January at Woodlands Methodists.

 

Harrogate Male Voice Choir   Minutes of Committee Meeting at the Chairman’s residence  10.00  am on Wednesday 5th November 2025
Present  –  David Bayne( DB) , Tony Goodall (TG), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC) Apologies– Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Lawrie Coulthard (LC) Copy to Richard Kay (RK)
Item		Action
1	TG welcomed the members to his residence following the inability of Woodlands Methodists to accommodate us. Apologies were received from II, CD and LC The minutes of the September meeting were approved and signed off.	TG
2	Treasurer’s report (report received in advance) Our bank balance stands at £11,823 after paying September hall hire, MD and new music. 15 members have so far paid subs. It was confirmed that new members should pay subs pro rata after their initial 3 month experience period.	II
3	Concert secretary report Saturday 22nd November. Concert at Whixley village hall, at 7.30 pm. GC has visited the hall with Rita and Ian McNeil (who also has access to recording). The space behind the stage which is needed as a green room had not been booked so GC paid the £11 to secure this. RK is liasing with  former member Ben and a dance group to complete the concert programme. Saturday 13th December. Concert at Holy Trinity Church, Knaresborough 7 pm.. GC has inspected the venue and met the warden. A green room has been identified and a co-ordinator for the concert night has been nominated by the church.  2 choir pews will be removed to allow us to line up as usual. There is no general parking at the church but some spaces at the church will be reserved for blue badge holders. Tuesday 16th December Concert at Woodlands Methodists, 7.30 pm (in lieu of HMVC rehearsal). This is our annual concert at our host venue, no fee charged and collection on retiring. Friday 13th February. Visit to Brackenfield prep school,.  Morning visit for 2026 Sing Out concert Friday 27th February. Boston Spa Methodist Church. Joint concert with Rodilians ladies’ choir.  GC and LC have visited twice, the second time with RK. Any joint songs will present a problem as there is no room for both choirs to stand together. The balcony may have to be used. Sunday 1st   March York Choir Festival 7.30pm. This is not competition but a choir festival similar to Harrogate. We have been allotted a 20 minute slot. DM is available. Saturday 21st  March. Harrogate Competitive Festival. The choir competition will be held in St Martin’s church, Leeds Road. RK will not be available if we have to sing in the evening. Saturday 9th May. Harrogate Community Choir Festival. The Stray Notes choir have reserved this date, we await an invitation. Saturday 6th June annual Sing Out concert. See below for venue options. October 2026. Joint afternoon concert with Eastwood Collieries MVC. Date to be agreed.  Probable venue West End URC	GC
4	Members Secretary Report As noted in (2) above, the situation of 3 members who have not returned after the summer break will be clarified by section reps. Members who have resigned have been deleted from the distribution list. A potential new bass has decided not to continue due to night driving from Chapel Allerton. Forms for attendance for the first quarter have been issued to section reps.	SB
5	Promotion (report received in advance) Whixley, 22nd November. LC has received tickets for the event priced at £15 for adults. Posters and a Facebook promotion have  been produced by Rita with material from LC, however RK wants the list of songs to be left flexible so no programme can be produced. Our general flyer will be available to promote the choir. Knaresborough 13th December.  A poster and a Facebook announcement has been produced by Holy Trinity church based on detail supplied by LC, however promotion  needs to be supported by HMVC.  If RK has decided on the songs to be sung by 2nd December, there may still be time for a programme to be printed.   Woodlands Meths. 16th December.  LC is preparing a poster for this concert which will be promoted by the church and by LC.  No formal programme is required however a list of songs and PDFs with the words of communal carols will be given to a steward for overhead projection. Boston Spa Meths. 27th February. Poster to include ticket availability from church committee members (with mob. numbers)  also from Yeadons hardware store. Poster will also include Rodilians QR code and secretary contact . Promotion on HMC and Rodilians facebook pages. The church will promote within the Methodist circuit and beneficiaries Martin House have been contacted by LC about their logo and promotion on their facebook page.	LC
6	Recruitment Venues so far contacted have not been accommodating for our initiative, however TG and RK will visit St Roberts social club with a view to booking a 10 week singing course in April and May 2026. (The original target of February-March was considered impracticable). The promotion of this course needs to be our next major task, and RK is quite rightly concerned that that it does not take up too much of his time/energy!!
7	Website and Google Drive These are pretty much up to date with Christmas concerts advertised and the google drive shared with all members. Documents to be stored on the google drive should be sent to RK who has access. RK has removed the old audio recording and will consider how to put what we have onto the website or Youtube. More informal photos from rehearsals and concerts are always welcome and we should approach local schools for volunteers to help with publicity and social media.	RK
8	Sing Out 2026 schools update TG is still seeking a meeting with Lizzie following the appointment of a new head teacher at Pannal primary school  in order to set a date for our school visit. Following a suggestion by Ian Brocket that West Park URC could be configured for the Sing Out audience, TG will investigate this at an upcoming meeting of the West Park organising committee. Our contact for hall hire at the High School will also be at this meeting. GC has been contacted by a co-ordinator of Spofforth and Follifoot primary schools about participation in Song Out. They could be considered for Sing Out 2027 along with Richard Taylor school.	TG
9	Care Homes Elwyn has told Lister House in Ripon that we could not perform there until the spring. They can afford full fees for MD and accompanist but most care homes have fewer funds and very little performance space. We should work up a programme of up to 1 hour for a small group of singers to sing either with just an accompanist or with backing tapes.
10	Next Meeting 10.00 am at Woodlands Methodist Hall. (confirmed with the administrator)	DB

 

 

Harrogate Male Voice Choir Minutes of Committee Meeting at Starbeck Methodist Hall  10.00  am on Tuesday 7th October 2025                                                                                                           Final
Present –  David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG), Lawrie Coulthard (LC), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC), Copy to Richard Kay (RK), David Healy (DH)
Item		Action
1	Minutes of last meeting. The minutes of the September meeting were approved and signed off. However David Healy on reflection has decided not to be co-opted onto the committee for marketing. He will however continue to seek sources of finance and support (see marketing, below).	TG
2	Treasurer’s report The  2024-25 accounts and Trustee report were sent to members. At the AGM the treasurer reported end of year balance at a healthy £9,675 helped in no small way by the generous legacy of £500 from our late colleague John Dawson and our Secretary’s NAC grant of £200. A closing small end of year surplus this time at £475 – compared to the previous year with negative £1618. In view of this useful position and notwithstanding reducing members – down from 47 three years ago to a likely 37 this year – the committee felt continuing subs at £150 was appropriate. Members approved the accounts and endorsed the subscription at £150 for recommendation at the AGM. As Patrick McCreanor has now resigned from the choir, Elwyn Pickering has volunteered to examine and audit our accounts for 2025-26. When new members own black suits which meet our uniform standards, they need pay only £15 for a tie and £25 for a shirt, and they should only pay when all aspects have been agreed	II
RK	Concert secretary report Saturday 22nd November. Concert at Whixley village hall arranged via Rita Lister, who is organising 2 other solo performers. This hall is slightly bigger than that at Green Hammerton. We will charge £250 to cover our costs. Start at 7pm was suggested. Saturday 13th December. Concert at Holy Trinity church Knaresbrough on suggestion of Trevor Davey. GC met administrator Brian Jelbert who was surprised at the small size of our choir and expected us to bring a substantial audience. This is a huge church and we need to promote this concert early and vigorously. Tuesday 16th December. Woodlands Methodist Church. Concert with collection in lieu of our last rehearsal in 2025. 7.30 pm start agreed with the minister. Friday 13th February Brackenfield prep school. Morning visit for 2026 Sing Out concert. Friday 27th February. Boston Spa Methodist Church. Joint Concert with Rodilians ladies choir. (Note the change from Saturday 28th February) Other potential performances Lunchtime concert at British Legion Lister House. Postponed to new year after organising repertoire, accompanist or backing tracks. Joint afternoon concert with Eastwood Collieries MVC, Nottingham. Request from Jan Fitzmaurice (Woodlands church steward) for joint concert in the spring with another choir rehearsing at Woodlands (Rock choir or Stray Notes). This may be difficult as it coincides with our Annual Sing Out concert and choir festivals, see below. We have asked for member’s suggestions for future concert partners, but final agreement must be signed off by the concert secretary before confirming it with partner organisations. Reading music GC has found “the Rhythm Tree”, an illustrated guide to musical note values and timings. RK reports that this is already in the Google drive. (see below)	GC
4	Members Secretary Report Section reps. have been issued with attendance sheets for the first 12 weeks of the new session. Resignations have been received from Patrick McCreanor, Stewart Reid and Brian Holmes and SB has sent letters to all signed by the chairman thanking them for their service to the choir. He has also sent a letter of welcome to Derek Jeary who has joined as a top tenor. As Brian has completed nearly 30 years of continuous service, including developing the HMVC website, he will be invited to come before the AGM and receive a framed choir photo with a small engraved plaque. Potential members invited by GC and RK are hoped to become members and another is expected on 14th October. The update of the emergency contacts list is a work in progress.	SB
5	Marketing and promotion LC visited Boston Spa methodist church (BSMC) with RK and GC on 4th September and discussed capacity, stage management, number of performers and audience capacity. Details of Rodlilians songs, numbers performing and rehearsal requirements are awaited from their MD The use of BSMC’s modern recording facilities was discussed, however it has since emerged that they have no experienced recording staff so it was decided not to proceed further with this. Due to the clash of dates with the concert at Knaresborough, LC has had to withdraw our offer to sing at the BSMC Christmas Tree festival on 13th December. Promotion of future concerts, social media, sources of possible grants LC has provided Rita with a sample template for promotion of the Whixley concert David Healy is following up his list of charitable organisations which might provide grants, to which will be added the Harrogate Round Table (identified by TG) and a list of local councillors (provided by CD) who should have access to “locality funds”.	LC                       DH
6	Recruitment New singer campaign 2026 TG and RK have been working on a campaign of 8-10 weeks duration in February/March  2026 for new male singers which would be separate from the normal choir operation (but with links not expressly hidden as suggested at the Peterborough conference). Although RK has offered to lead with only expenses paid, the committee agreed to pay a fee in addition per session. Possible venues are St Roberts social club, Harrogate Playhouse and  West Park URC. TG and GC will investigate costs. The social prescribing effort has not yielded any candidates so far and we will distribute flyers ourselves to suitable locations. It is however encouraging that 2 people brought to the choir by members have now joined and another 2-3 are attending as potential members.	RK/TG
7	Website support The resignation of Brain Homes has left RK with no support in updating our website. TG will appeal for any member with ability in this area to help. To simplify access to practice tracks, documents and concert promotions, RK has developed a “new resources folder” or “Google drive” where such items can be saved. Committee members are encouraged to try this and give feedback. The folder will allow access for potential members before they have access to the website. Items to be saved should be sent to RK who is the sole administrator.	RK
8	Sing Out 2026 schools update Communication with Pannal school has been difficult and visit dates have not yet been agreed. Both schools have yet to confirm whether Friday 5th or Saturday 6th would be preferred for the concert. At the moment, Harrogate High school appears to be the best available venue but audience capacity needs to be re-checked.	TG
9	Competitive festivals 2026 The choir competitions in Harrogate competitive festival will take place on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st March in St Martin’s church. Leeds Road. (Saturday is most likely) Entries by 15th January. We have been invited to the York Choir Festival on Sunday 1st March to do a 20 minute slot in the evening at 7.30. There is no competition, rather it is a performance festival similar to the Royal Hall festival in Harrogate (for which we still a wait an invitation). We will not compete in Eskdale festival this year as neither of our accompanists is available.	DB
10	AGM Nominations and seconders have been registered for TG to continue as chairman and DB to continue as secretary, in accordance with the constitution. No nominations have been received for marketing. No questions have been received under “other business” .	DB
11	Venue of this meeting. Was changed to Starbeck Methodists (with room fee) after last-minute notification that Woodlands would not be available today.	DB
12	Next meeting. Wednesday 5th November at Woodlands Methodists.	DB

 

Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Agenda for Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Hall
10.00 am on Tuesday 2 nd September 2025 FINAL
Present – David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG),
Lawrie Coulthard (LC), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC), David Healy (DH). Copy to Richard Kay (RK)
Item Action
1 The minutes of the June meeting were approved and signed off.
5 committee members along with many present and past members attended the funeral
of David Millar at Rawdon crematorium in July

TG

2 Treasurer’s report
II has prepared and distributed the accounts for choir year 2024-25 along with a budget
for next year and a report from the Trustees for the Charity Commission.
Thanks to a generous donation from the estate of John Dawson and a grant from the NAC
for our Sing Out programme, we finished the year somewhat better than expected with a
bank balance of £9675 (compared to £9200 last year). Provided hall hire costs do not
increase and we have no exceptional expenditure, this should allow us to hold our
subscriptions at £150, although those who wish should be encouraged to pay a little
more. The critical factor once again is the number of paying members, budgeted at 37 (2
resignations, 2 recruits) down from 40 in 2024-25. We assume 37 rehearsals and the
costs of 2 festivals.
The accounts were audited by Patrick McCreanor, who has now resigned from the choir.
Due to our notice board being taken down by the church, AGM and sub notices will be
displayed in the small hall on a portable board.
II also provided an analysis of the Sing Out costs and income, showing ticket sales of
£1448 and expenditure of £1118, higher than normal due to an extra visit to Oatlands
school. There was discussion about charging admission for teenage children, but no
conclusion was reached.

II

3 Concert secretary report
Concert at Whixby village hall, Saturday 22 nd November. Theme “The month before
Christmas”. This is still under discussion and may involve some local talent, but is
generally supported by RK. GC will insist on total control of arrangements this time.
Joint concert at Boston Spa methodists, Friday 28 th February. The initial visit to the
church was positive although space is limited for 2 choirs performing. The church has
excellent recording facilities which we may use to record the concert. More details are
awaited from Rodilians ladies re logistics, costs and programme. We suggest that profits
go to Martin House childrens’ hospice.
As no other concerts are in prospect at the moment, especially for Christmas, TG will
encourage members at today’s rehearsal to look for opportunities to stage concerts for
charities.

IB

4 Members Secretary Report
The resignation of 2 more basses puts more importance on recruitment. The new top
tenor has completed the membership documents and GC is bringing a potential new
member this evening.
The attendance sheets have been issued to section reps for the next month
The updated emergency contacts have all been received and a revised sheets will be
issued shortly to first aiders and deputies.

SB

5 Marketing and promotion
The concert on 14 th June at West Park was well attended and the piano performances in
each half by Duncan Goodwin were excellent. LC produced the usual programme for the
Sing Out concert on 5 th July in Harrogate High School , and although advance ticket sales
were low, the hall was filled by people paying at the door.
A meeting was held by LC and GC at Boston Spa Methodists on 4 th July with GC to discuss
the proposed concert with the Rodilian singers on 27 th February. Church rep Jo Vernon
was very helpful. A further meeting will be held on 4 th September to discuss proposals
LC

and costs for recording our concert. There may also be an opportunity to sing some kind
of background at their Christmas Tree Festival, held over 3 days in December
LC represented HMVC at the “Harrogate Story” exhibition at the West Park centre on 18 th
July.
DH has compiled a list of 11 Yorkshire charitable foundations which give grants to local
causes and will write to each of them emphasizing our local background and the health
benefits of communal singing. CD reminded us of the “locality budgets” available to local
authorities and urged us to research them and make applications where appropriate.

DH

6 MD Report.
RK has been active on many fronts and has reported by e-mail.
RK continues to gradually update our website and would like feedback on this from the
committee. The date for Eskdale festival has been announced but not yet Harrogate.
RK approached some 8 members to give opinions on 10 possible new songs but only half
of them replied.
RK has enquired about the Whixley concert but would like GC to follow up
RK is not available to take rehearsals on 21 st October and 9 th December but has arranged
for his father Graham to deputise. We will not rehearse on 28 th October as neither
accompanist is available (half term)
7 Recruitment
In keeping with recommendations from the Peterborough conference, we will organise a
series of 6-8 sessions for new singers with no mention of or connection to the choir.
Graham Kay has offered to help but we have still to arrange costs and promotion.
Social prescribing has so far offered no results and we will try to contact surgeries, drop-
in centres and barber shops directly.
8 Sing Out 2026
Brackenfield prep school has given Friday 13 th February for our visit and choir practice at
the school. Pannal primary school is unable to perform any concert in July and suggests
Friday or Saturday 5 th , 6 th ,12th or 13 th June. TG suggests St Aidan’s school hall to
accommodate the size of audience to be expected with these 2 big school choirs.

TG

9 Festivals 2026
We hope to participate in Harrogate competitive festival, Eskdale Festival and the
Harrogate Community Choirs festival. Of these the only confirmed date is 18 th April for
Eskdale.
10 Committee members 2025/26
DB and TG must be re-nominated for chairman and secretary at the AGM. DH has
expressed an interest in marketing and LC will still continue with promotions.
11 AGM date
The AGM will take place on Tuesday 7 th October at 7.30 pm with a shortened rehearsal to
follow.

DB

12 Other Business
CD observed that the arrangements announced for parking at the High School for the
annual concert had not been adhered to resulting in more difficulties in directing traffic.
More signage is required at such events. We also need to guarantee adequate disabled
parking and venue access at the 2026 concert venue.

CD

13 Next Meeting
Tuesday 7 th October at 10.00 am at Woodlands.

Harrogate Male Voice Choir
Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Hall
10.00 am on Tuesday 24 th June FINAL
Present – David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD), Ian Ibbotson (II), Tony Goodall (TG),
Lawrie Coulthard (LC), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC), David Healey (DH) Copy to Richard Kay (RK)
Item Action
1 TG welcomed David Healy as co-opted member without portfolio. The minutes of the last
meeting were approved and signed off and will be posted on the members section of our
website by RK, as will all future approved minutes

TG

2 Treasurer’s report
It Is accepted that 2 members who could not attend rehearsals this year will not pay subs.
The projection for year end 2024-25 with 36 rehearsals (1 cancelled due to snow), 3 Sing
Out school visits, 9 concerts and 3 socials and festivals is: subs £5817, hall hire £1560,
music team £7040
One choir member has proposed subs for next year at £160 with £10 increase per year
thereafter but the committee will formulate their proposal for the AGM after further
consultation. II once again indicated his wish to stand down as treasurer if a suitable
qualified member can be nominated in his place. We have an ample stock of choir ties
and any member wishing to replace theirs can buy one for £15.

II

3 Concert secretary report
The concert at West Park URC on 14 th June was another success with some 24 members
performing (see feedback from LC)
The final school visit to Oatlands primary school on 17 th June also achieved its objectives
in rehearsal with their choir
Sing Out concert, Harrogate High School 5 th July
Green rooms have been allocated to all 3 choirs. Schools will bring their own
refreshments and we will offer fruit juice to the audience.
Advance ticket sale have been poor, but it is hoped that many parents will pay on the
door and the card reader has been checked for card payments. After we go to rehearse,
2-3 of our ladies will take over the door and ticket sales.
Approval has been granted to use the playground at the rear for parking and there is
ample parking space also in front of the school. CD has offered to direct traffic.
Volunteers are needed to set out chairs at 3pm and to put them back after the concert.
We will rehearse with the school choirs at 6pm so members are asked to arrive by 5.45.
Boston Spa Methodist Church, 27 th February. Joint concert with the Rodilian ladies choir.
GC and LC will visit on Friday 4 th July to discuss arrangements.
So far, no other concert offers have been received.

IB

4 Members Secretary Report
SB now submits figures for attendances by each section of the choir for the period of 8 th
April 2025 to 1 July 2025. That period is 11 weeks excluding bank holidays etc. although
the Tenors 2 and Baritones appear to have only recorded 10 weeks.
Suffice to say the attendances
by Baritones 63.84% of all available dates
by Bass 47.72% “ “ “ “
by Tenors 1 77.27 % ” “ “ “
by Tenors 2 73.63 % “ “ “ “

This compares with the previous period January to April 2025 of 80.4% for Baritones,
64.46% for Bass, 88.63% for Tenors 1 and 77.68% for Tenors 2
SB has excluded a member from the calculation for baritones who made no attendances
in the period, and does not know if he was resigned or is long term sick.
Bass figures include 4 members who did not attend at all during this period but are
presumed to be returning eventually. The bass figures were also perhaps made to appear
worse by the absence of one member who attended only once up to the end of the
period. However one looks at it there has been further decline in attendance by all

SB

sections in the April to July period as set out above.
A potential top tenor has attended 2 rehearsals and hopes to join in September. Updated
member details have now been collected and a new table of contacts will be available to
first aiders for the re-start in September.
After the meeting, we received the sad news that David Millar has passed away.
5 Marketing and promotion
LC produced a shortened programme programme for the concert on 14 th June at West
Park, including a refence to Duncan Goodwin who performed brilliantly, and his wife
Fran. LC has also produced the usual programme for the Sing Out concert which will be
printed on 26 th June. Posters will be available to members this evening for distribution in
the Harrogate area and LC has provided a total of 550 tickets, 320 of which have been
issued to the 2 schools. 30 tickets have been retained for choir member.
LC and GC will meet representatives of Boston Spa methodist church on 4 th July about our
proposed concert on 27 th February 2026.

LC

6 Social Prescribing update. TG will meet the new co-ordinator for North Yorkshire later in
July. The responsible person has changed twice since our offer was made. DB has
attempted to contact the nominated person for Linking Leeds in Wetherby and has even
offered a complimentary ticket to Sing Out but there has been no response. DB will
follow up with the organisation in Leeds. No referrals have yet been made from either N.
Yorkshire or Leeds and now we have indicated that we have a break until September.

TG/DB

7 Website update
RK reports that he continues to “tinker” with the website and change photos. He has a
slight issue with the header picture when viewing it on mobile phones – it just seems to
display the 'Risen' webpage theme image instead of our header. He is trying to work out
how to fix it, but if not he will ask Josh Gribby if he will help.
The minutes of the last meeting have been posted on the members’ section of the
website and will be replaced by these minutes when finalised.
8 Sing Out 2026
TG has confirmed arrangements for Pannal primary school and Brackenfield prep school
to participate in Sing Out 2026.

TG

9 Competitive festivals 2026
We have been contacted by Harrogate Competitive festival for support in participating
next year, as the financial future of this festival is in doubt. It was agreed that we should
support our local festival and prioritise it over other events on the same day. Eskdale
festival also has financial difficulties and no announcement has yet ben made for the
Harrogate Choir Festival (Royal Hall)
10 Committee members 2025/26
DB, II and TG are all up for replacement at the AGM as their terms have expired. DH’s
membership will also have to be confirmed. DH has expressed an interest in marketing
the choir and will work with LC until the post id confirmed.
11 Date of choir re-start
The re-start will take place on Tuesday 2 nd September. DB will remind members 2 weeks
before the first rehearsal

DB

12 Sources of finance.
CD explained that councils have “locality budgets” which can be used to fund local
causes. CD will investigate his local council and committee members are asked to look
into the budgets of their local councils.
13 Next Meeting. Tuesday 2 nd September, 10.00 am at Woodland Methodists

 

Harrogate Male Voice Choir   Minutes of Committee Meeting at Woodlands Methodist Hall  10.00  am on Tuesday 13th May                                                                                                            FINAL
Present  –  David Bayne( DB) , Chris Dunn (CD),  Tony Goodall (TG), Lawrie Coulthard (LC), Stuart Berry (SB), George Cross (GC) Apologies Ian Ibbotson (II) copy to Richard Kay (RK)
Item		Action
1	The  minutes of the April meeting were approved and signed off, after the number of members singing at the Walle Garden event was corrected to 26.	TG
2	Concert Secretary Report Sat. 12th April, Whitby Festival. Despite only 21 members coming to the festival, our results were judged as satisfactory and improved over last time by RK, Marilynne and contacts in other choirs.  Although we did not win any of the 3 classes we entered, we were awarded “outstanding (90-94)” in the MVC and recital classes and “honours (85-89)” in the Music from the Shows class. The committee consensus is that we should compete there again. Thursday 8th May Rossett Acre Primary School. The school visit was very successful with 2 assembly performances (lower and upper schools) plus a rehearsal with their 60-strong choir. We had a good report on their website. Tuesday 10th June. Afternoon visit to Oatlands Primary school for rehearsal with their choir. Numbers of members have been collected. 14th June West Park URC centre. Concert organised by the centre promoters, probably with other solo/group performers. Arrangements and promotion by Chris Holland. TG has been able to engage pianist Duncan Goodwin, performer in Channel 4’s “The Piano” for this concert. He would like to have a trial with our keyboard some time before the concert. 5th July Annual Sing Out Concert, Harrogate High School. Green room availability for HMVC and the schools has been discussed and a checklist for insurance, security etc. has been completed. All communication for this event should be through GC.  A door desk will be required for cash payments and late arrivals and it is expected that the card reader will be operational. 2026 concert in Boston Spa. (see LC below). RK has indicated a preference for February 2026 to allow learning of new songs.	GC
3	Treasurer’s report (sent in advance and extended by e-mail from II) The bank account balance stands at £10,460 after paying £5190 so far to the music team. The forecast for the end of the choir year is a balance of £7,700 (compared to £9200 in 2024 and £10,800 in 2023). All subs have now been paid except for 2 members who have been unable to attend rehearsals so far this year and are not expected to pay.	II
4	Members Secretary Report SB will complete attendance statistics for the next  months at the end of June. Attendances at rehearsals, the event in Ripon and at school visits has improved compared to the period before Christmas. Ian Brocket has provided a summary of the attendance of our current 12 basses, as RK has commented on their recent low numbers. 4 of these are long-term sick, and 2 will soon return to regular reheqrsals. DB is requested to issue a reminder to all members to give any changes to addresses, telephone numbers or next of kin details to SB by 3rd of June. DB will also assist in correcting the layout of the excel table passed on by Tom Holland. II reports that former member Jim Rogers has died. A request from his widow to accept his uniform back was declined by DB.  Ian Brocket also reports vis Bernard |Hall that former member Tony Wren is in hospital.	SB
5	Marketing and promotion LC has followed up the contact with Boston Spa Methodist Church (BSMC) for a concert on 27th or 28th March in support of Martin House Childrens hospice. There is also the possibility of using their new recording studio at £60/hour to generate a few tracks for our website and facebook page. LC is working on the programme for the Sing Out concert with an agreed forward from our president and has signed up 2 advertisers who will sponsor the concert with £200.	LC
6	Social Prescribing DB has delivered about 90 flyers to the “Linking Leeds” contact for distribution to surgeries and men being supported at home in the Wetherby area. TG is waiting for the appointment of a replacement “Living Well” co-ordinator for the Harrogate district.	TG/DB
7	Questionnaire “What does our choir mean for us?” In preparation for an in-depth discussion with RK about his feedback from the Peterborough MVC conference, DB has adapted the questionnaire from Peterborough for issue to our members. IT was agreed to delete “recruitment” from the questionnaire.	DB
8	Next meeting with RK On 10th June we will be singing at Oatlands school followed by a rehearsal in the evening. The committee members (minus DB) will meet RK after the school session to discuss our choir’s direction and recruitment strategy.
9	Sing Out 2026. TG has revised our Sing Out prospectus for issue to potential participating schools, with updated photographs and an outline of the concert running order. TG proposes to approach Pannal primary school who last participated in 2022 and Brackenfield prep school, which would be the first involvement of a private school. CD reminded us of the need for disabled parking at participating schools	TG
10	Website update (comments from RK) RK has written an extensive analysis of our website and has taken over from Bryan Holmes as webmaster. He has devised and installed a new logo, and will add a mission statement, updated photographs, and links to further pages. And suggests a re-think of our members page .Committee members should log onto our website and give RK feedback on the changes they find. RK agrees that the minutes of our committee meeting should be posted on our website starting with the final version of these minutes.
11	NAC legacy fund DB has once again progressed payment of the promised £200 and has now been asked for reviews and comments from participating schools and from our MD. A suitable document is now being prepared	TG
12	Keyboard at Woodlands Methodists The minister at Woodlands has asked why we did not use the keyboard stored in the small hall cupboard, however David Mawson would like us to continue using the Claviola from the large hall, which has now been repaired..
13	Committee Members for 2025/26 David Healey has volunteered for unspecified committee duty but cannot attend the next meeting. We need to replace both our treasurer and secretary at the next AGM.
14	Next Meeting. Tuesday 24th June at Woodlands Methodists. (This should be the last committee meeting of the current session)