Richard ParrKing's Lynn Corn ExchangeRichard Parr

King's Lynn Corn Exchange.

His aim was to make performances exciting and informative and his debut as the new musical director of the chorus was certainly all that and more.

Tom Appleton is obviously intent on making music fun and informal and in a refreshingly innovative style there was much to amuse and appreciate in this concert from the massed voices of the Lynn Festival Chorus.

In a thoroughly entertaining evening that went by all too quickly, the audience were presented with an eclectic programme that featured music from Bach to the Beatles and from Henry VIII to Copland.

And, wow, what a wonderful evening it proved to be, with the men and women singers clearly enjoying a programme that was, at times, quite challenging and demanding for amateurs. Mezzo soprano soloist Meg Bragle contributed greatly to the evening.

Mr Appleton, who conducted the concert, is clearly not frightened of breaking down traditional concert presentation styles with the choir members moving around the audito-rium including the side balconies and entering from the rear of the theatre.

At one point Mr Appleton joined the singers for a rest on stage while they listened to the accomplished playing of piano accompanist, John Bryon.

In an altogether pleasing pro-gramme it is difficult to choose favourite items but I particularly enjoyed Copland's In the Beginning, the Ward Swingle arrangements and Blackbird/I Will. If this is a new beginning for this talented group of singers, bring it on!