Music takes to the stage at Mid Norfolk church

Musical Delights Coming to All Saints Necton Church
The historic All Saints Church in Necton, Mid Norfolk, is set to become a vibrant hub of musical entertainment in the early months of the year, with a diverse lineup of concerts organized by the Friends of All Saints Necton. These performances will transform the sacred space into a community gathering place, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a range of musical styles from swing classics to contemporary rock harmonies.
On Sunday, February 8th at 3pm, the Centre Stage Swing Band will fill the church with the nostalgic sounds of the swing era. Under the expert direction of Derek Oldfield and featuring the smooth vocals of Tom Melvin, the ensemble will transport audiences to a bygone age with timeless standards that have captivated generations. Concert-goers can look forward to swaying along to beloved classics such as “Lazy River,” “String of Pearls,” “Five Foot Two,” “Jersey Bounce,” and the romantic ballad “My Foolish Heart,” among many other delightful tunes. The combination of brass, percussion, and Melvin’s voice promises to create an afternoon of warmth and musical sophistication, perfect for chasing away the winter blues.
The musical journey continues on Sunday, March 8th, when Rockavox takes center stage at 3pm. This community rock choir represents the heart and soul of local musical talent, bringing together voices of all ages and backgrounds to create something truly special. What sets Rockavox apart is their unique approach to choral music, blending contemporary pop and rock songs with rich, multi-layered harmonies. The result is an uplifting musical experience that bridges traditional choir arrangements with modern musical sensibilities. Audience members can expect to be moved by powerful vocal arrangements that showcase both individual talents and the collective sound of a community united through music.
Completing this musical trinity, the Dereham Band will showcase their talents on Sunday, April 19th, also at 3pm. Known throughout Norfolk for their skillful performances, the band will likely present a repertoire spanning from classical compositions to modern favorites. The Dereham Band performance will round out this concert series with precision and musical expertise, highlighting another facet of the rich musical landscape that flourishes in Norfolk. Each of these three distinct musical events brings something unique to All Saints Church, collectively demonstrating the versatility of the beautiful historic space as a venue and the commitment of the Friends of All Saints Necton to providing quality entertainment for the community.
These concerts not only offer exceptional musical experiences but also provide an opportunity for community connection during the quieter months of the year. The beautiful setting of All Saints Church, with its centuries of history and magnificent acoustics, creates the perfect atmosphere for these performances. The Friends of All Saints Necton, through their dedication to organizing such events, play a crucial role in preserving and celebrating both the architectural treasure of the church building itself and the cultural life of the Mid Norfolk region. Their efforts ensure that the church remains not just a place of worship but a living, breathing part of community life that adapts to contemporary needs while honoring its heritage.
For those wishing to attend these musical gatherings, tickets are priced at £10 each and can be purchased in several ways. Advance tickets are available from Sue Ovenden (07880 994778), John Mills (01760 788294), and Francesca Shearcroft (07595 154971), or can be purchased at the door on the day of each performance. The church is located at All Saints Church Necton, PE37 8HE, and more information can be found on their website at nectonallsaints.co.uk. Whether you’re a longtime resident of Necton or a visitor to the area, these concerts offer a perfect excuse to experience the warmth of community and the joy of live music in a truly special setting.





