The Marsh Warblers choir is based near Tenterden, in the Weald of Kent, and sings sacred and secular music which amateur singers and instrumentalists performed in the Georgian period (ca.1720-1850). The choirs of country churches and chapels usually sang from a gallery at the west end of the church or chapel and the singing was accompanied by stringed and wind instruments. These included oboe, clarinet, bassoon, violin and cello, and possibly even a serpent. The musicians may have played for country dancing in their village as well, which gave their church music a lively and exciting quality. We also sing glees and patriotic songs of the period which were sung in Catch and Glee clubs. Our music comes from printed and manuscript music books from the southeast of England, especially from Kent and East Sussex. We perform in period costume and our concerts include anecdotes and readings which set the music in its social context.
Rehearsals are fortnightly in Sandhurst Baptist Church, Rye Road. New singers and instrumentalists welcome. For more details contact Tony Singleton