Although the Club began somewhat tentatively, it very soon became popular and when the concert venue was enlarged in 2003 – and the public support increased – other activities were attempted. Indeed, as the extension was actually taking place and therefore unavailable, arrangements were made for a charity concert to be staged at the Cricklade Theatre (now The Lights) in Andover, which served to raise the Club’s profile.
A strong social bond developed amongst the Club’s supporters and in the following years a number of concert outings were organised to such locations as Bristol, Basingstoke, Northampton, Worthing and Kettering. Annual coach trips were also made to electronic keyboard music festivals in Bournemouth over a period of eight years, each one featuring three different performers. Local events, all incorporating music and meals, were also held for a number of years on Sunday afternoons, as well as Christmas celebrations.
Special concerts, such as New Year, with an Austrian theme, and an evening of Sixties music were included in the Club’s annual programmes, whilst several concerts were staged at The Lights theatre, where it was possible to provide a variation of entertainment involving up to four different artistes. In addition to performances on electronic keyboard, the audiences were able to see and hear pianists, vocalists, a drummer, violinist and even a comedian!
In the early days, a colour brochure was produced, introducing the Club’s activities to the public although, with the passing of time, the contents eventually became out of date. Another venture was the introduction of memorabilia, serving the dual purpose of showing appreciation to visiting artistes and as an incentive to supporters (in preference to operating a membership scheme). Items offered included mugs, keyrings, model vehicles, travel clocks, torches and pens.
Over the years, changes in society generally and music preferences in particular, together with the effects of the Covid pandemic, forced the Club to restrict its activities in many ways, although the love of melodic, easy listening music is still appreciated. We remember those who have attended our concerts in the past – both audiences and players – some of whom are sadly no longer with us and others who, for whatever reasons, are unable to share or add to our enjoyment. We will always be grateful for the support we have received in the past and for the excellent entertainment provided by all of the visiting artistes. This piece of music, entirely composed and performed by a popular former player, is dedicated to those we no longer see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14rVgyoSN4Y
“Friendship is like music, brought together through a passion so strong and played with beautiful harmony – a never-ending melody that you’ll never forget”.