St Martin’s Church, Liskeard, was the setting on 26 September for Voices of the Moor: A Community Cantata, an evening that brought together music, heritage, and community in a celebration of Bodmin Moor. The event was arranged by Levow Kesson Mixed Voice Choir, with the Federation of Old Cornwall Societies and Liskeard Old Cornwall Society contributing strongly to the heritage dimension of the night.
The church was beautifully prepared, with a series of table‑top displays presented by both the Federation and Brian Oldham of Liskeard OCS. Liskeard’s display highlighted the work of local artists, while the Federation showcased a range of projects including the Charles I Letter Project, Cornish Angels, Natural Beauty & The Beast Project, and Cornish Dialect. A full bookstall was also available, drawing interest throughout the evening. Old Cornwall banners from across Cornwall added colour and identity to the space, including those of the Federation, St Gerrans & Porthscatho, Liskeard, Luxulyan, and St Columb.
During the concert, a slideshow of Bodmin Moor scenes—prepared by Chris Trevena—played quietly, setting the tone for the evening. Chris also recorded the entire concert, ensuring a lasting archive of this special event.
The programme was arranged in two halves. The first featured a selection of choral pieces inspired by the spirit and landscape of Bodmin Moor. Between each piece, members of the Old Cornwall Societies delivered narrations that explored themes of community, archaeology, rural life, high moorland pathways, and the moor’s celebrated dark skies. These narrations, written specifically for the event, were read by Nev Meek, John Little, Howard Milkins, Dr Kate Neale, and Colin Roberts, each bringing their own voice and society’s presence to the evening.
After a short interval, the choir performed A Moorland Cantata, composed by Heather Taylor. This new work drew deeply on the landscape, stories, and atmosphere of Bodmin Moor, and was received with warm appreciation by the audience.
Refreshments were served at the close of the evening, giving time for conversation and for visitors to explore the heritage displays more fully. It was, in every sense, a very special occasion—one that demonstrated the strength of partnership between Levow Kesson and the Old Cornwall movement, and the continuing importance of celebrating Cornwall’s landscape, culture, and community.