Stourbridge choir releases song to celebrate historic women's strike
A COMMUNITY choir has released a song to celebrate the women chainmakers' strike.
Stourbridge-based In Sound Company have highlighted the historical 1910 strike with their song, The Chainmaking Women of the Black Country.
The chainmakers' strike was a pivotal event in 1910 where women, producing chains for the ship industry, protested against poor wages and working conditions.
Their actions led to improved pay for many women in the area at the time.
Richard Newhall, who penned and produced the piece, said: "I came up with the idea following a visit to the Black Country Living Museum several years ago, but it only began to crystalise during lockdown.
"The strike is an important piece of social history, both locally and nationally, yet is not widely known about in the area.
"I wanted to do something to tell their story, and hope that it resonates with many people.
"The audience reaction at the concert was amazing."
The song premiered live at Stourbridge Town Hall in March.
It is now available on music streaming services.
Judith Moreland, co-arranger and musical director, said: "The fact that some choir members have family connections to the chain-making industry make this song extra special for us.
"The lyrics, sometimes using Black Country dialect, describe the terrible conditions that the women worked in and their strike for better pay.
"It is dramatic, moving and inspiring in equal measure.
"Chainmaking Women has become one of the choir's absolute favourites."
The song will be featured on Black Country Radio's Omma 'n' Chain Show every Sunday throughout June.
It is also available to play or download from various music streaming services, and a storyline video has been released on ISC's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@InSoundCompany.
In Sound Company is keen to welcome new members.
Rehearsals take place on Monday evenings during term-time, and no auditions are required.
More details can be found on their website.
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