TEXT OF PRESS RELEASE ON ALEX'S RETIREMENT, ISSUED 21st Nov.1999

At a dinner held at Ashmore's Restaurant, Radcliffe on Trent, the Radcliffe Male Voice Choir made a presentation to honour the talent and support of their retiring assistant Musical Director and accompanist, Alex Denman who had given the Choir 11 years excellent service. Alex was, for many years, the organist at St Mary's Parish Church at Radcliffe on Trent and is much respected for his musical abilities by both choirs and professional soloists alike.
The Choir showed their appreciation in the form of an inscribed silver salver, a framed picture of Alex with choir members and many other gifts for Alex to enjoy in his retirement.

Chairman Martin presented Alex with an inscribed salver to mark his appointment as Honorary Life Member.

Alex received his framed photo from Mike Farnsworth.

This memorable evening was highlighted by the brilliant singing of guest soloists, and long standing friends of the Choir, Donna Bateman (soprano) and Dawn Foxall (mezzo) of Bella Voce.

Thanks to Choir media officer David Culm for the above text.

BRIEF BIOGRAPHY OF ALEX DENMAN

Alex Denman was appointed accompanist and assistant musical diector in 1988, having had a previous long and distinguished career in music and teaching. In july this year, at the grand age of 82, he decided that it was time, reluctantly to relinquish the role which had given both himself and many others, so much pleasure. Alex took on the dual role with us after serving as organist and choir master at St. Mary's Parish Church, Radcliffe, for more than 30 years, moving to Radcliffe to be nearer the church.

Alex was born in West Bridgford and his love of music was stirred by joining St Giles' Church as a Choir boy at the age of eight. Soon afterwards he learned the piano and organ. At the age of 15 he was already church organist at non-conformist chapels in Radford, Bulwell and Netherfield. "I used to take my homework to do during the sermon," he recalls, with a chuckle.Alex and his brother Geoffrey joined the Royal Corps of Signals and in the early part of the second world war were based at Duxford, which had a theatre and and a good piano. While at Duxford a group including Alex was encouraged to form the Blue Pencils Concert Party which played an important role in maintaining morale amongst the troops.

to be contd.