Celebrating 70 years at St John’s choir in Bromsgrove

While the world has traded vinyl records for streaming and telegrams for smartphones, Dave Banner has continued to sing in the choir of St John’s Church in Bromsgrove. On 10 May Dave celebrated 70 years as a chorister at the church!

On Sunday 10 May, the congregation gathered for a milestone service to celebrate this rare feat of dedication that spans generations, musical eras, and local history.

Dave’s journey began in 1956 when he joined the choir as a six-year-old. Since that first rehearsal, he has been the backbone of the stalls, serving under 14 Different Organists and 9 Different Vicars. 

To mark the platinum anniversary, Dave curated a selection of his personal favourites for the service, including the stirring Jerusalem, There is a Green Hill Far Away, and Ye Holy Angels Bright. The choir also performed a moving rendition of Wood’s O thou the Central Orb.

The highlight of the morning service saw Dave presented with the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) Long Service Medal and Certificate, a prestigious acknowledgment of a lifetime dedicated to sacred music.

Vicar of St John’s Church in Bromsgrove, Ray Khan put Dave’s achievement into historical perspective, noting that when Dave first donned his robes, the UK was just emerging from post-war rationing and witnessing the birth of rock and roll. He said:

“Dave has lived through seismic changes in our world and our town, yet he has remained faithful and loyal in his service. After 70 years of hitting the high notes, this was a well-deserved moment of harmony for a man who has become a true local legend!”

The celebration continued long after the final Amen. Joined by his family and fellow parishioners, Dave was toasted with refreshments, drinks, and an impressive spread of cakes.