The Eisteddfod

It seems no time at all since last AGM and here we are once more with the 103rd Eisteddfod done and the next one in preparation. It has been an honour for me to serve as Chairman in what has been has been another successful year – thank you for allowing me that privilege.

Sir Edwin Jowitt the former High Court Judge who lives in Desborough agreed to take on the role of Patron. He has connections with committee members Margaret Read and Dianna Morris as his children have been taught by them in the past. Indeed Diana, our instrumental secretary, continues the tradition by teaching piano to his grandchildren now. His comments at the Celebration Concert were well received and we look forward to him maintaining a long association with the Eisteddfod.

In this year’s programme I quoted a predecessor of mine who in 1923 wrote that it was “felt that talent or genius should not only be discovered but developed and trained.” Surely, as a committee, this is what we are about and the week of the 2012 Eisteddfod really lived up to our expectations with many fine performances and a wonderful atmosphere throughout at the various venues.

Our four adjudicators were superb and it was a privilege for us to welcome them and to work alongside them. I know that their comments and encouragement were welcomed and valued by the competitors. The adjudicators said that the standard of competition was exceptional and some high marks were awarded as a result. Indeed there were some wonderful people of all ages taking part who worked so hard in preparation and performance and who learned a great deal.

Here I pay tribute not only to the dedication of those performers and to their families who do so much to encourage them but also to their teachers who pass on the required skills so well.

The committee I serve alongside is both dedicated to the Eisteddfod cause and very hardworking. To every member I express my sincere gratitude for all that you have done.

Thank you to Anne Humphrey, our President, whose knowledge of the event is second to none and whose presence throughout is so welcome.

Penny Payne must be singled out once more. As the Festival Secretary she has done sterling work, she is our tower of strength, both efficient and conscientious and this and her devotion and tireless effort must be applauded yet again. Penny – thank you.

Pat Wildman must be specially mentioned too for she is the one who records every word spoken in committee!! Pat – thank you.

To the sectional secretaries - Diana Morris, Margaret Read, and Sue Peel - the amount of work you have to do is recognised by all of us and, on behalf of everyone, I want to thank you all most sincerely.

It is most unfortunate and I am saddened that Sue Peel has felt unable to continue as Vocal Secretary. (I know that a voluntary job like this is much easier to do when one is retired and must be difficult if a responsible full time job has to be done too!) Her contribution over the years has been much appreciated and greatly valued. We must remember all the hard work she put in to the Child Protection policy and personnel checks, the choosing of the syllabus pieces for the singers and also assisting with putting together the concert programmes. We wish her well in all that she does at her school and with her choir and hope that she will continue to be a supporter of the Eisteddfod as she has been for many years. Sue – thank you

At this AGM we say farewell to Life Member, Brian Pack, who is retiring from the committee after many years of distinguished service. His contribution over the years has been great as a member, chairman and also the person who would choose pieces in the Recorder Classes of the instrumental syllabus. Brian – thank you.

This year seems to be one of great change. Doreen Godson has been our treasurer forever it seems and she expressed a year or so ago her desire to step down from the role whilst maintaining her involvement with the organisation. That time has come and we are extremely grateful to Doreen for all that she has done to keep us solvent and on the “straight and narrow” with things financial. She herself represents good value for money!! Doreen – thank you.

Roger Payne our webmaster is maintaining the website and electronic archive so well. We have an excellent resource and we are indebted to him for the many hours he spends on its development. Roger – thank you.

As always I must place on record our thanks to the ministers, elders and congregations of the three churches we use, for making us so welcome and affording us every facility. I must show too our appreciation to our loyal friends - all those reliable people who assist on the days of the Eisteddfod - the accompanists, table clerks, stewards and those who keep us all going with refreshments! Without them its smooth running would not be assured! Thanks as well to the Governors and Head of St. Peter’s School for letting us hold our meetings there.

The finale of the 2012 Eisteddfod was our Celebration Concert. It had been our aim to “Celebrate the Arts” in style and we did just that. I am certain our predecessors would approve and be pleased that all continues as they envisaged.

We look forward now to next year and the 2013 Eisteddfod.