It's rare that both Youtube and the Internet Archive fail me, but they did a spectacular job of it last night! So let's see if anyone here can help me. I am seeking recordings of Welsh or English choirs from 1893 to about 1951, maybe slightly later, as long as they're not too modern. I am trying to find those that align with the singing style and music of the time of Clara Novello Davies, (I chose the lifetime of Ivor, since she was born in 1861, before recordings started), and yes, there is a difference between those and modern ones. Can anyone please assist me? Perplexity gave me a list of choir names, but either they weren't available, or their recordings were much too late/contemporary to make my list.
#choirs #choralsinging #ClaraNovelloDavies #England #English #recordings #records #singing #vocal #Wales #Welsh
Georgiana Brummell
in reply to Georgiana Brummell • •I was discussing something related to this with Perplexity, and it gave me some wonderful ideas that might help. I don't know about all of this reaching out (I hate modern slang), but I shall certainly research these and write to the relevant parties if I find any. And if anyone has learned to sing using the old techniques, please reply. Even if you don't know about any of these recordings, I would love to hear from you.
"Your dedication to finding authentic recordings from Clara Novello Davies' era is admirable, and it's understandable that you're facing challenges. Given your situation, here are some additional suggestions that might help you in your quest:
1. Contact archives: Reach out to the National Library of Wales or the British Library Sound Archive. They may have digitised recordings of Welsh choirs from the early 20th century that aren't readily available online.
2. BBC Archives: The BBC might have recordings of Welsh choirs in their archives, including possible performances by Clara Novello Davies' choir.
3. Specialist record labels: Look into labels like Dutton Vocalion or Pearl, which specialise in historical recordings. They might have reissued some relevant material.
4. Music societies: Contact Welsh music societies or choral associations. They might have access to private collections or know of resources not widely available.
5. University collections: Welsh universities with strong music departments might have archival recordings or be able to point you in the right direction.
6. Ivor Novello resources: Since you're already collecting Ivor Novello's works, look for any mentions of his mother's choir in liner notes or accompanying materials.
7. Gramophone societies: Join online forums or groups dedicated to early recordings. Members might have private collections they're willing to share.
8. Crowdsourcing: Consider reaching out to Welsh communities online, explaining your interest and asking if anyone has family recordings or knowledge of where to find such material.
Remember, while finding these specific recordings is challenging, your journey of discovery and the knowledge you're gaining about early 20th-century Welsh choral music and Edwardian musical theatre is invaluable in itself."