Toad Lane Concerts: Freda Farnworth soprano & J Edward Rigg piano

J Edward Rigg and Freda Farnworth

Freda Farnworth trained at the Guildhall in London. She has sung professionally in the UK and abroad and been a well-loved musician in the borough, as soloist, teacher, conductor, and producer, for many years.

She was accompanied on Wednesday 25 October by another local music bastion, Wardle-born J Edward Rigg, who taught in Rochdale for 18 years prior to taking over the family business, whilst continuing his musicmaking. He is President of Rochdale Phoenix Opera Society and organiser of the Littleborough Coach House monthly lunchtime concerts. Both have made significant contributions to Rochdale music.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s My Favourite things was a suitable introduction to diverse vocal gems from Freda’s extensive range: moving Shakespeare settings by Quilter, classically elegant Mozart, dramatic show songs; plus a reflective interlude from Edward with Dvorak’s Humoresque.

All this culminated in audience participation with a Gracie Fields tribute singalong that included The Co-op Shop, with the original right across the way in Toad Lane.

A hugely enjoyable recital by two pillars of the local music scene.

The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts are every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the Grade 1 listed church of St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. Entrance fee is £6. No refreshments available. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.

To see details of forthcoming Toad Lane Concerts, click here.

Dr Joe Dawson