Join Johnny for music workshop

FUNDRAISING to create a 500-seat theatre in Thornbury will hit the right note with a singing workshop.

Arts and Community in Thornbury (Act) has teamed up with trustees of the Armstrong Hall to try to bring the town's community and arts facilities up to date.

The hall in Chapel Street is the main venue for many events but is in need of improvement.

Act has worked for a number of years on a proposal for a new multi-million pound performing arts centre in the town.

It will include meeting and rehearsal rooms, Thornbury Museum and a theatre at its heart.

As part of the fundraising programme organisers of Act have announced an event called The Sing Thing, which they hope will become an annual event in the community.

Singer/songwriter Johnny Coppin, pictured, will lead The Sing Thing , a musical workshop, on September 15.

Mr Coppin, who first came to prominence as one of the founding members of folk-rock band Decameron, plays guitar and piano and has written and recorded many albums as a solo artist. He has a weekly one-hour show on BBC Radio Gloucestershire entitled Folk Roots, which he has produced and presented since 1996.

For the workshop he will be teaching two of his songs, one specially written for the occasion.

Expert guidance will be on offer from Liz Martin and Kate Phillipson-Masters, who both run choirs in the area and will supervise warm-up sessions.

Act spokeswoman Lyn Bedford said: "Choirs and individual singers are all welcome – just book your place and be part of the beautiful harmonies.

"There is no need to be able to read music.

"In the evening there will be a concert featuring the songs learned during the day and a performance from Johnny Coppin – always a delight. So – be inspired, be uplifted, support the Act project and give your voice a treat."

The workshop costs £10, including mid-afternoon refreshments and the evening concert. Tickets are available by calling Jackie on 01454 416421 or Jenny on 01454 417038.

The evening performance starts at 7.30pm. Concert tickets are on sale from The Garden Shop, Thornbury High Street and cost £7.50.

Visit www.actthornbury.org.uk for more information.

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