Tenor 2, John’s Boys Male Voice Choir
As part of our 10-year reflections, we spoke with founder member Peter Jones about the journey from that very first rehearsal to sold-out cathedrals and major stages.
From BBC Choir of the Year at Symphony Hall Birmingham to unforgettable performances at York Minster and the Royal Variety Performance. Peter shares his memories, what the choir means to him, and why he’s still just as passionate today as he was in 2016.
What do you remember most about the very first Johns’ Boys concert?
I had the pleasure of knowing John Glyn Williams and John Tudor Davies and always respected and admired both. I thought they were amazing talents that were worthy of recognition. I was therefore honoured and excited when I was invited by Aled to attend the first rehearsal for what was supposed to be a “one off concert” in 2016. I really wanted to be part of the tribute and celebration of both Johns’ lives. The concert was held at The Stiwt in Rhosllannerchrugog.
What were rehearsals like in the early days?
For me they were fun, I loved being part of a male voice choir once again. I’ve sung in choirs from the age of 11, Boys Choirs, School Choirs and latterly both SATB and TTBB Choirs, sadly my occupation and location prevented me from pursuing this hobby for a few years leading up to 2016.
Did you ever imagine where the choir would be ten years on?
Very early on I could see we had something special. Shortly after the concert in the Stiwt Aled entered the choir in the BBC Choir of The Year competition. We sang in The Symphony Hall in Birmingham, wow – the acoustic and the sound the choir generated was terrific. I got then, and still do now, a great buzz from performing with the lads, I quietly knew that we were very good and different. I must admit I never thought we’d progress as we have though.
What has being part of Johns’ Boys meant to you personally?
Fun, challenging, exciting and rewarding. It’s also provided me with the opportunity to meet some amazing lads and make lifelong friends.
Is there one performance or concert that stands out for you?
All are special, but York Minster was incredible and will remain in my memories for ever.
Do you have a favourite song or arrangement you’ve sung with the choir?
I have many, especially those traditional pieces transposed and “modernised” by Aled, I also enjoy the more modern songs that we perform. However, if I was pushed to select just one it would have to be “We Shall Walk Through the Valley”. This was stunning when sung in York Minster and it holds a special place in my heart as we sang this in a Memorial Concert for a fellow chorister and dear friend who passed away. If I’m honest I still struggle to get through the piece without shedding a tear.
How has the repertoire changed or evolved over the years?
The repertoire has become more challenging as has the learning methods the choir use (Spond, Zoom, Teams and Tracks) as you already know we cover all genres of music. The variety in our repertoire keeps us fresh and on our toes.
What’s a behind-the-scenes or rehearsal moment you’ll never forget?
Without doubt BGT and The Royal Variety Performance. Being there with some seriously big names was just an incredible experience and will remain with me forever.
How do you think the choir has evolved since those early days?
We have grown in confidence and we’re all happy to take on new challenges and embrace change. Anything is possible.
What’s it really like being part of the choir, beyond what audiences see?
Being part of a successful choir with a great bunch of lads brings so much joy. It’s great that we’re all friends regardless of our age and backgrounds. We work hard; we have fun and get a buzz from what we’re doing. I feel tremendously proud to be a part of this amazing choir.
What are you most proud of when you look back?
I’m honoured to have been on the journey with the choir from the very beginning. The pace is fast, there’s no hiding place, I’m proud that I manage, just about, to keep up. I’m also proud of the sound that we create and the joy that we bring to so many people. It’s great to see young men enthused with what seems nowadays to be the domain of the over 65’s and 70’s. Standing ovations at all our concerts provides me with a huge sense of satisfaction.
What would you say to someone thinking of joining the choir now?
Don’t give it a second thought. You won’t regret it and you’ll get to be part of something truly special. Something I always said to the teams I managed during my career and to my own daughters – “If you think you can, you can. If you think you can’t, you can’t. Whatever you think you’re right”. Just do it!
