AN ANNUAL celebration of the life and music of Worcestershire’s most famous composer are calling for singers to join a very special chorus.
The Elgar Festival – which will take place between May 24 and June 1 2025 – is inviting experienced singers to take part in the Elgar Festival Chorus next year.
Set in the composer’s hometown and surrounding areas over the week closest to Elgar’s birthday on 2nd June, the festival is an annual celebration of Elgar’s music spanning symphonic and string orchestra concerts
The Chorus will perform John Ireland’s majestic work for baritone solo, chorus and orchestra, ‘These things shall be,’ at the Elgar Festival Gala Concert at 7.30pm on May 31 in Worcester Cathedral.
Joining the Chorus will be the English Symphony Orchestra, baritone Gareth Brynmor John and conductor and the festival’s artistic director Kenneth Woods.
The Gala programme will include the song cycle ‘Out of the shadows’ by 2025 Festival Composer, Ian Venables, in the premiere of its full orchestral version. The concert will conclude with Elgar’s mighty Symphony No 2.
Kenneth said: “There’s nothing like the thrill of singing with a great group of friends and colleagues and a world class symphony orchestra.
“The chorus is a vital part of the festival, bringing together outstanding choral singers from around the region under the leadership of chorus master, Stephen Shellard.
“I’m so pleased to invite singers to come and sing with us.”
Singers are asked to make a commitment to attend at least 5 rehearsals and to be available for the afternoon rehearsal on the day of the concert. Rehearsals take place at St Andrew’s Church, Pump Street, Worcester.
Rehearsals take place from 10am to 1pm on February 1 and 15, March 1 and 29, April 26 and May 17. Closer to the festival, a rehearsal will be held from 10am to 4.30pm on May 26. Afternoon rehearsal on the day of to the concert is to be confirmed.
Visit elgarfestival.org/elgar-festival-chorus-2025 for more information and to apply to take part in the concert.
