THE PHOENIX CLUB: Local bass baritone, Alan Fairs, gave a talk on his life and experiences as "An ordinary opera singer” on July 19.

Born in Gateshead, his father was a singer so Alan enjoyed music and attended concerts from an early age. As a young boy he sang in his church choir. At University he gained a degree in economics and sang in the college choir. Later, Alan took up an opportunity to join Worcester Cathedral Choir and for some time taught economics at King Charles School in Kidderminster and Royal Grammar School in Worcester.

Oratorio singing engagements encouraged him to give up teaching and pursue a full time career, beginning with the Glyndebourne Opera Chorus. After a time in Germany at Bayreuth, more roles came his way abroad and in this country including several seasons with the Welsh National Opera.

More recently Alan took the role of Pontius Pilate in the Passion Play at St Anne’s Church, Bewdley. He was happy to answer questions throughout and perhaps he may have inspired many of the members to take an interest in Opera.

There is no meeting in August, but on September 10, Dr Sally Hoban will talk about the work of the "Birmingham Assay Office".

Visitors are welcome at Trinity Methodist Church Centre, Kidderminster at 2pm. Further information from Katharine on 01299 877989 or Diana on 01562 753355.