His chorister’s robes now cover trousers instead of shorts and the soprano voice long ago gave way to a rich bass, but 80 years in the same choir has not dimmed Bob McFarlane’s love of music.
The 86-year-old joined the church choir at St John’s in Perth in 1941 when he was six, and only National Service and a stint working away from home have stopped him taking his place in the stalls.
Mr McFarlane insists he has no plans to retire, adding: ‘It keeps you fit and it’s a great way of mixing with people with the same attitude and interests and getting to know them. Being in the choir has brought great companionship throughout my life and still brings happiness and joy.’
His chorister’s robes now cover trousers instead of shorts and the soprano voice long ago gave way to a rich bass, but 80 years in the same choir has not dimmed Bob McFarlane’s love of music
Marjory Watson, the choir’s director for 11 years, said: ‘Bob is the type of member that all choir directors love to have. His loyalty, reliability, support, and willingness to give his all are what make him a great leader.
‘He is still an excellent singer – a linchpin in the bass section. He’s a lovely person whose quick wit and sense of humour makes choir practice more enjoyable for everyone.’
McFarlane said that in the Second World War, the lights above the pews had been fitted with tincan lampshades. This allowed the choir to view their music and not lose too much light during blackouts.
And at the end of the war he sang at the church for a distinguished guest – Field Marshal Bernard ‘Monty’ Montgomery, the commander behind some of the Allies’ most crucial victories.
The 86-year-old joined the church choir at St John’s in Perth in 1941 when he was six, and only National Service and a stint working away from home have stopped him taking his place in the stalls
Mr McFarlane said: ‘He was at one of the special services on Remembrance Day and I was standing at the door and he spoke to me.’
McFarlane, a young man who had just completed his National Service, moved to Maldives as he was completing it. In 1961, McFarlane married Margaret and worked later in insurance.
He was forced to stop going to St John’s during the Covid lockdowns, so the couple watched services via the internet.
However, the great-grandfather has been reunited once again with his family and fellow choir members. ‘We’ve missed meeting people, but we are all in the same boat,’ he said.
‘The congregation at the church has held up well. Singing is not the same when you’re socially distanced, but nevertheless we do our best.’