Meet the Mendip Men; Mike Coles (Baritone)
What led you to join the choir Mike?
I live in Winford, and one day in 2023, I went down to the local shop to buy milk, and I saw a poster in the window saying, "Would you like to join a choir?" This was at the time of the first "20 Mendip Men" Prostate Cancer campaign. In the shop was Simon Martin, who worked there as a volunteer. He had seen me reading the poster and asked if I would like to join him at the next rehearsal. I had been learning to play guitar and sing, and I thought this would help my singing, so I agreed.
How did it feel in the first term?
It felt very comfortable joining the choir. Simon drove me there, and there were 2 or 3 other new people. We went up to Jamie (our MD at the time, before Kate), and he put me with the baritones. You know how you often go to something new, and there is a lot of standing around not knowing who to talk to? There was none of that with the choir - I was straight into the action!
What have enjoyed most during your time in the choir?
I really enjoy the rehearsals. I like Mondays now because it's practice day. And I also enjoy the performances because we get that feedback from the audience. And also, it's great camaraderie. I have been in many clubs and organizations, and this has been by far the most welcoming. It's been instant friendship. And some of the songs are great; Seal Lullaby is a favourite, also Anthem for sure!
What do you do during your working life?
I am an electronics engineer. I worked in Filton, on parts and systems for aircraft and satellites.
What are your interests outside the choir?
I like to do off-road mountain biking. There are many trails in the Winford area, Ashton Court, and South Wales. I sing and play the guitar, for example at the Afterglows in the South Wales tour. Also, I used to do rock climbing when I was younger, in the Wye Valley, Yorkshire, and southern Spain.
What is your advice to new choir members?
I remember how overwhelming it feels at first, with that great pile of music. My advice would be to have a word with your section leader and ask his advice on which order to approach the songs. Some are easier to learn than others, so start with the easier ones, and take it steadily and slowly; don't try to learn everything all at once. Also, the practice tracks on the website are a great resource. Download these and start working on them.
Comments