KIDDERMINSTER Male Choir were in excellent voice on Saturday evening, with songs to please every taste, while their guests, Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra, had us all tapping our feet.

Does the old adage that one is getting old when policemen look younger apply to musical directors? With Justin Parker for the choir and Ian Hattersley for the orchestra, I feel quite aged.

The jazz orchestra were very good, especially in the old favourites American Patrol, Pennsylvania 65000, Satin Doll and Tuxedo Junction, but in a tribute to Duke Ellington they made a hash of Mood Indigo. At times they seemed a little doubtful on the endings of numbers, but in general I enjoyed their performance.

The choir were undoubtedly the stars of the evening, some highlights being, Take Me Home, with solo by Harry Lewis, Jamaica Farewell and a Gospel number Soon and Very Soon.

It is unusual to hear I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables sung by men, but it was absolutely beautiful, and their enjoyment in singing The Rhythm of Life was infectious.

A Back to the 60s spot was also popular, and the capacity audience joined in You'll Never Walk Alone to wish the choir well on their coming trip to Australia. This was a superb concert. VJS