Concert Review: Jambouree Singers – Perth Festival of the Arts, Saturday 24 May 2025, St John’s Kirk, Perth

A packed St John’s Kirk was the setting for a joyous celebration of community music on Saturday evening as the Jambouree Singers marked their 20th anniversary in style at the Perth Festival of the Arts. This much-loved ensemble, made up of children and—as Festival Chairman Craig Dennis wryly observed—“fully grown adults,” delivered a performance brimming with charm, variety, and unflagging enthusiasm.

Introducing the concert, Mr Dennis welcomed the group as “one of the most interesting groups practising music in the city,” and what followed more than justified the praise. Under the inspirational direction of founder Edna Auld, the programme opened with A Song in My Heart, a fitting overture to an concert that touched hearts and raised spirits in equal measure.

Recording – click play

What made this concert truly special was its remarkable range. From show tunes to opera, traditional Scottish songs to children’s favourites from decades past, there was something to delight every listener. The Junior Singers, coached with obvious care and creativity by Iona Melloy and Shannon McKinney, were a highlight in their own right. Their animated renditions of Mole in a Hole and The Wee Kirkcudbright Centipede were delivered with gusto and confidence, earning roars of laughter and applause from a thoroughly entertained audience.

Jambouree’s soloists—Fiona Brownsmith, Iona Melloy, Teenah Bee, David Thomson, Bill Millar, Marilyn Taylor and Eleanor McQueen —each took centre stage with confidence and skill, showcasing a rich tapestry of vocal talent. Their performances engaged the full spectrum of festival-goers, from lifelong locals to first-time visitors, all drawn into the warmth and humour of the day.

Junior Jambouree, led by Gwen Boswell, added visual delight to the mix with colourful costumes and playful props. Their fun, creativity, and impeccable timing, drawing wide smiles from even the most stoic concertgoers.

But the adults weren’t to be outdone. In a brilliantly theatrical turn, the Jambouree Singers’ performance of Wagner’s Bridal Chorus was elevated by the surprise appearance of a “bride”, Tatiana, gracefully escorted by her stage father Alan Laing. Mr Laing’s signature blend of witty and informed compering remains a beloved feature of Jambouree performances, and his rapport with the audience is unmatched.

The concert concluded with a riotous, irresistible rendition of Mambo Italiano, which had the ancient walls of the 900-year-old Kirk—perhaps even John Knox himself—shaking to the beat. The number was so infectious that it was reprised, with the entire audience on their feet, clapping, dancing, and grinning from ear to ear.

It was a triumphant reminder of what the Jambouree Singers represent: a joyful, celebration of music, community, and shared humanity. Long may they continue to sing.