Strange ducks and folk music

Following my last post we had feathered visitors on the puddles at school. For several days we had ordinary mallards like last year, but then these unusual birds turned up. I have no idea what they are but they were very pretty.

Sadly they have gone as the puddles have dried up again for another year.

Last weekend was Easter in both the western and orthodox churches. At St Andrew's we had a lovely service with a full church including 50 youngsters from the Taize community in France who were on a visit. After the service we had a bring and share lunch which was enjoyed by all.

Afterwards Peter and I went to a concert of Russian folk music. One of Peter's students sings in the group and invited us. As it was held in the Rackmaninov Room of the Conservatory I was even more pleased to go as I sang there this time last year with MIC. Sadly I let my camera battery go flat so I didn't get as many photos as I wanted, but here are the ones I got.

It was good to see young people joining in

This lady seemd to be the leader and introduced it all - not that we understood any of what she said.

Sadly I didn't get a photo of Peter's student Katya who a distinctive costume. The music was very unusual. Except when they were dancing it was all sung unaccompanied. There were harmonies but it was very subtle. The sound was very harsh and nasally. It was quite hard on the ears but unusual and not unpleasant. I am pleased we went, but I'm not sure I would go again.

Peter and I are going on a coach trip to some of the Golden Ring cities this weekend which we are looking forward to. Then there is THE wedding tomorrow.