Hallelujah! Voices of the River's Edge choir shine at the Royal Albert Hall
This blog is by Voices of the River’s Edge choir member Kathryn Cockbain.
BBC Proms is an annual summer event known for its wide range of performances from classical to modern music. It welcomed the Voices of the River’s Edge (VOTRE) choir to Prom 65 as part of its goal to celebrate diversity in music. The night was not just a performance; it was a celebration of the power of communal singing and the deep impact of music on people’s lives.
The main hall of the Royal Albert Hall, rich in musical history, resonated with a unique mix of voices on this unforgettable evening. VOTRE was part of a large group combining the Philharmonia Chorus, Bath Minerva Choir, The Fourth Choir, Jason Max Ferdinand singers, Academy of St Martin in the Fields and London Youth Chamber Choir.
As we stepped onto the stage, there was a feeling of anticipation. The venue’s grandeur, iconic round design and rich history were a fitting backdrop. It was our fourth time performing at BBC Proms, but our first in London. From the opening note, we captured the audience’s attention. Our harmonies were tight, the dynamics were well-balanced, and our passion was clear.
One of the standout moments of the night was our rendition of Hallelujah—a well-known piece that shows a choir’s ability to convey deep emotion through music. The performance was both a musical and emotional journey. By the end of the evening, it felt like we had earned not only the applause of the audience but also their admiration and respect. Afterwards, some audience members stopped us in the corridor to thank us and tell us how wonderful the experience was.
Singing at the BBC Proms is a big achievement for any artist, but for us, it was also a moment of recognition for the power of community music-making. Our appearance at such a prestigious event shone a spotlight on the importance of choirs as places where people can come together to create something beautiful and meaningful. VOTRE’s performance was a highlight of the season and a defining moment in the choir’s journey. It showcased everyone’s talent and dedication and unique spirit we bring to every performance.
VOTRE at The Glasshouse is more than just a group of singers. It’s a community, a family brought together by a shared love for music and a desire to connect with others through song. Since 2022, the choir has grown steadily to become a lively group that brings together people of different backgrounds and experiences. Our performances are known for their emotional depth, joy and inclusivity, often leaving audiences deeply moved.
The future looks bright. Our success at the Proms will open new doors for us to share our music with an even wider audience. But no matter where the journey takes us next, the memory of that night at the Royal Albert Hall will remain a glowing example of what’s possible when a group of passionate individuals come together to create something truly magical. A special thank you to our wonderful chorus-master Simon Lee – we are where we are, thanks to you.
