I did it “My Way”

So hopefully everyone has watched this evenings Masterchef Quarter-Final, even if like me you had to watch it on catch-up (we call it Ketchup)

We now know “whatever next”

I’ve literally spent the last 24-48hrs, preparing for the end of the show, and what I might write, depending on the outcome….

I’ve loved the chance to reminisce on the times as one of Beth’s pupils and recall lots of fabulous memories!!

Those that know Beth Hodgson well, know that’s she is fantastically unique, she likes to be the extravagant one. Beth even said “ I know I am well accustomed to making a fool of myself on stage”

I categorically disagree with her words, I’d rather describe her as “memorable and inspiring!” and surely as a teacher, you want those young and up-and-coming greats to notice you, learn something from you, and be inspired by you. How many of the great leaders and inspirers have led a “Big Sing” with probably about 25 local school choirs sitting infront of her on The Derngate Stage, and throughout the rehearsal, it was noticed that her shoes were sitting “proudly” next to the music stand, with Fluffy Socks The order of the day! Even when the lights go down for the evening performance. It’s the Fluffy Socks look!!

Only Beth could do this and still be the best!!

Our boys choir had the best year, we sang so many great songs. Unfortunately my memory of music other than church/sacred music doesn’t always keep up. But I remember singing Bill Withers song: Lean on me. We performed this at Derngate too, She didn’t quietly conduct the accompanist in at the start of the performance, she went for the “loud and proud, Rock N Roll

”2,3,4,!”

I remember Beth and Steve got our choir through the Music for Youth competition and we had a trip to NEC Birmingham for the next stage. I remember how much my school back then were not happy with the fact that I was going on a day trip with an educational organisation. I think most departments in the school didn’t understand the need for Northampton’s talent to be noticed and recognised.

I remember a music lesson at Weston with May Griffiths, where she pointed at a noticeboard full of information of how many different subjects at school “Music actually is”

Geography: because of People. Where they are from and all that. I learn as a choir leader myself that it’s mostly a case of telling people like James “What page we are on!” Or explaining what a Coda is!

Maths: counting to 4 or even 6 is highly important! Most of us musicians can tell the difference between 3/4 and 6/8, for those “top notch musicians” who can’t, but can play Widor… Congratulations that you can play a challenging but simple piece of music that I can’t. But shame on you that you couldn’t seem to figure out the difference between the two time signatures in the same piece!

I must credit Vince Cross for his great tune: “Jay Pink” for Walking in a garden!

History: the history of music is huge!! I’m just not that interested unless it’s about my favourites!

Art & Drama: Music is Art. And the power of performance is huge too!! A dear friend once said to me during a very anxiety ridden time: “Own it” I played O thou the central orb in a different key, because that’s how I can do it!! And….? 🤷‍♀️

Food Technology: I often find little posts on social media describing the difference between rhythms: Fig (Crotchet) Apple (Quaver) etc!

Now there’s another connection to food: One of the best Inspirers I’ve ever known is also one of the best cooks, and one of the very few people to be able to say They’ve been on Masterchef - and were a Quarter-Finalist,

Beth,

You inspired me as a musician

You did things “your way”

You were always memorable,

noticed, and admired!

Most of all

many of us with music in our hearts have been blessed with you and your music,

Teaching, leadership, and encouragement

And we can only Thank you!

Fish and Chips and Vinegar

was Part 2 of a warm up (you taught us)

Chocolate & Orange is the best combo!

Whether Caper Brownie is, or isn’t,

(I’ll need to try it to find out!)

What is though,

You are you!

Beth, you are great!

I think they call them “influencers”

I remember my best times at NMPAT were with you!

Sorry everyone else!

My greatest disappointment was not being able to stay and be in the best Youth Choir ever.

We all know that Graham Tear is an absolute legend!

But so are you!!

You and your fluffy socks on stage!

We are all proud of you and your amazing achievement.

Thank you for everything!!

Be proud of yourself!

Never change!!

EJW x