The Tomforte Community Choir raises the roof for seasonal festivities

The Tomforte Community Choir raises the roof for seasonal festivities

Didsbury’s newest amateur singing group, The Tomforte Community Choir, has been celebrating Hanukkah and Christmas with a special performance featuring both Zemirot and classic carols for their families and friends at dementia specialist, Belong Morris Feinmann.
The shining moment commemorating the Jewish Festival of Light saw the village’s residents and apartment tenants come together after months of practice under the tuition of Manchester choirmaster, Dan McDwyer. Their warm renditions of When the Saints Go Marching In as well as classics As Time Goes By from Casablanca were met with emotional applause from their guests.

Speaking of his experience, customer and choir member, David Cotton, said: “It’s very much part of my weekly routine. I like the involvement, the camaraderie and the general spirit of people really giving it their best.”
Renee Joseph added: “Taking part in the choir is very good – it's wonderful, I love it!”
Music features prominently in this year’s seasonal experience programme for the Belong Morris Feinmann community, with live entertainment from Klezmer Tune Club, singer Lucky Locky, pianist Barnaby and jazz musician Joe. The vocals of u3a and Menorah Synagogue choirs have been enjoyed, as well as the talents of pupils from Moor Allen Preparatory School and North Cheshire Jewish Primary School popping in to perform over mince pies and sweet treats in the onsite bistro.

Meanwhile, activities including Israeli chair dancing, ballroom tuition with amateur dance champions, shopping excursions and festive tea at Manchester’s famous Midland Hotel have been delighting customers. More intergenerational relationships have also been forged with a trip to Cheadle Hulme School for coffee and carols with young friends.
Angela Luckett, experience and cultural coordinator at Belong Morris Feinmann, commented: “Our customers and their families have been having a joyous time getting into the spirit. We welcome those of all faiths and so we’ve been enjoying our Jewish and Christian festivities together. It’s been a real ball, so far, and we’ve much more to come!
“We’re all about involving the community – everyone is welcome; pop in to say hello and ask for a copy of our What’s On guide to see what’s coming up. For now, Chag Chanukah sameach and merry Christmas, to all!”

Pictured: The Tomforte Community Choir celebrates Hanukkah with a special perfomance