Meet the Mendip Men; John Taylor, Top Tenor and Secretary.
When did you join the choir John? And why?
I joined the choir in 2021, when we had just moved to Midsomer Norton. I had been a member of a choir in Brighton, where we lived previously, and wanted to find one here. I tried one, which didn't suit me, then I met Eric Baldwin, who lived opposite and was a member of the MMVC, and he brought me along. I enjoyed it and stayed with it.
Originally, Eric was the choir secretary, and when he stepped down at the age of 80, John Kendall took over and I became assistant secretary. Then John found his business life was more demanding than expected, and I agreed to take over the secretary role with Simon Gyde as my assistant. I am not a natural at admin work, but have tried to work hard at it!
What is involved with the Secretary role?
It's an awful lot of emails! For example, this morning I checked the resume Simon typed, added a few things, and sent the final version to Richard. I double-checked the membership list that I have with the one Andy maintains. Then I might field inquiries from people who want to hold joint concerts or who ask if we can sing at an event like a funeral. I field these; some I can answer, and others I pass on to the correct person.
What have been your highlights with the choir so far?
As a newcomer to the area, joining the choir seemed like joining a community. I love singing in choirs, and that sense of a shared endeavor is very fulfilling. Also, it introduced me to a lot of people in the area. For me, virtually every concert is a highlight. I also enjoy spending time with people on tour. Recruiting Kate - being part of the continuity of the choir and helping the choir's journey of improvement - that also was a very good feeling.
I am really looking forward to singing the Hallelujah Chorus; it's just fantastic, the sort of piece you can put your heart into.
What did you do for a living?
I am retired now, but I worked in finance in the City. I did investments for insurance companies, but then became a financial advisor for the wealthier end of the market because I enjoyed engaging with people, meeting a range of individuals in real situations. I had an office in the City, but clients from all over the country.
What are your interests outside the choir?
I am an active member of Welton Baptist Church, where I have just taken over as treasurer. I love walking and running, and a couple of years ago I walked from Brighton to Midsomer Norton, which took 10 days. I write poetry, I am trying to learn Spanish, and my grandchildren also keep me busy!
What is your advice to new members?
My advice would be not to panic about the amount there is to learn. If you get stuck in and plug away at the practice tracks, suddenly you will find that it clicks. You will be able to put the music down, you will have most of the words, and every time this happens you will find it is a real lift to your spirits!
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