In her characteristic humorous chit-chat, and leaning on the arm of Congregational Steward, Cecil Niles, the revered former organist and educator Mrs Eudora Hughes, entered a packed Bethel Methodist Chapel on Sunday evening, November 23, to a powerfully-rendered concert – in her honour – entitled Walk by Faith.
It is some years since Mrs Hughes, affectionately called “Dora,” a former top musician, music teacher, choir director and school principal, retired from active service in the church and community. But those who admired her over the years, and benefitted from her leadership, took particular pleasure and pride, on one hand, to honour her contribution by organising and participating in the concer and, on the other hand, to fill the church to capacity to witness the grand event.
The concert was presented by the Bethel Augmented Choir under the leadership of Mrs Lois Hazell-Carbon, a leading organist at the church, and a school and music teacher, like her mentor. The first part of the programme, during which the 30 female and male choristers appeared in their normal robes and suits, featured hymns by some of the best composers.
During the intermission there was a performance by a group of young people from the church, and performances by Mr Lennox Vanterpool, Director of St Augustine’s Chorale and music teacher; and Mr Remieko Richards, an upcoming musician.
After the intermission, the choir members reappeared but in African wear for the remainder of the programme which featured the works of other popular artistes.
The programme was narrated by Rev Dr Wycherley Gumbs. He commented that Mrs Hughes had done a great amount of service in her walk by faith, the title of the programme. The musicians, throughout the programme, were Devaunie Richardson, Elson Richardson, Joshua Gumbs, Keval Gumbs, Lucien “Tony” Fleming, Najique Davis and Theron Niles.
In an article entitled Reflections of Eudora Hughes, written in the programme brochure, Mrs Yolande Richardson, a member of the choir, described her “a great organist and choir director who will always be remembered with affection.”
Mrs Richardson continued: “In the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s, the peak years of her music ministry, Dora…used her musical talents and gifts in the service of her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ…It is Dora’s great humanity, her great humility, and her love of her God and her church, that made her the extraordinary person that she is.”
Mrs Richardson’s article was supported by Mrs Hyacinth Hughes, another choir member, who reviewed Mrs Hughes’ musical career from 1965 onwards – and spoke in glowering terms about her love for music, those she mentored, and her contribution to the wider church and community life of Anguilla.
Mrs Hughes, who was the recipient of a plaque and bouquets, expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed on her, and led the congratulation in song of thanksgiving and praise.
