Musical 'madness' lifts the spirits

Spirits have been lifted by a lively community musical festival in Princetown.

Musical Madness, organised by a group from the methodist chapel, brought villagers together, being such a success that it is likely to be staged again next year.

The chapel hall was crowded with people sharing musical skills, energy and fun, from choirs and banjos to drums and guitars, African drumming and community singing and lots in between.

The day flowed from act to act, with people coming and staying to enjoy the atmosphere. An African drumming workshop attended by 18 enthusiastic learners was an upbeat start to the day and the level of energy remained with everyone taking part delivering memorable event for everyone.

Sandra Dodd, Methodist area circuit pastoral worker, came up with the idea, which brought together local performers.

She said: “I work for the Methodist circuit in Princetown. Part of my remit is to bring communities together and showing Christian love to all. The event was one of my mad ideas and a small group made it happen. A huge thank you to everyone who took part.”

The acts at the event on Saturday, September 26 included an African drumming workshop, Bere Peninsula Singers, Moduleles, Melodi Liskerret, Whitewash Architecture, Tim Miller and Mike and his Accordion.

Villager Lesley said: “As you entered the hall, there was a real buzz. How wonderful the community coming together like this. There was something for everyone.”

Sally said: “It was brilliant having the young generation too.”

Mike said: “It was a fantastic day. It started with prayer and God really did bless the time.”

Sandra added: “Music can express how we feel, and it does draw people together, and with some nice food, what more could you want. So, Musical Madness evolved. I have been asked if this will happen again and as long as the artists are willing, we will hold the event again.”