On Sunday 2nd October 2011 around 40 singers of varying musical backgrounds and abilities gathered in the splendid surroundings of The Clarendon Muse, the Watford School of Music. We were there to improve our knowledge of a capella singing while learning an arrangement by Ben Parry of Fats Waller's song "This Joint Is Jumpin".

The music was fun and accessible but challenging enough to need hard work.

With first class coaching from Ben this mixed group of singers produced a creditable performance by the end of the day.

Ben kept things moving but took care to maintain a pace which included everybody.

He explained along the way why staccato was an important part of the big band style which the arrangement was emulating, and when the men were trombones and the women trumpets.

The singers' smiles showed their enjoyment.

This was a happy day and a learning experience; more singers could benefit from days like these.

Dee Griffiths.