An invitation to sing “Messiah” with Ilkley Choral Society

Monday, 4 November 2024 09:49

This season is Ilkley Choral Society’s 75th Anniversary, and also the 75th Anniversary of the Society singing Handel’s “Messiah” for the first time .

To mark this occasion the Society is singing the choral masterpiece in St. Margaret’s Church, Ilkley, on Saturday 16th December 2024. This concert also marks the new winter start time of 5.30pm.

A spokesperson for Ilkley Choral Society said:

"The Society, along with our sister choir ,Otley Choral Society, invite a limited number of singers to join us . You must have you own copy of the Watkins Shaw edition of the work (orange cover) and you must be able to sing with a fair amount of confidence . We invite voices from all sections."

"You will be invited to attend 4 rehearsals on a Monday evening, in Christchurch on The Grove and be able to attend the short rehearsal on the Saturday afternoon prior to the performance . Monday rehearsals commence at 7.30 for two hours and the rehearsal in St. Margarets on the Saturday afternoon will be from 1-2pm. The first Monday rehearsal will be on the 18th November. We are asking for a fee of £25 which covers the four Monday rehearsals and he rehearsal and concert on the 14th December.

"The performance and concert will be under the leadership of Alex Kyle, the Society’s versatile and inspiring Musical Director. This will be Alex’s first “Messiah” with the choir. As always, the organ and harpsichord parts will be played by the choir’s brilliant accompanist, Robert Sudall. Also we will have four top professionals singing the solos.

"There will be about 120 voices from both choirs singing, so we have little spare accommodation of guests. Please apply to Sally Sumpner, Secretary, as soon as possible via email secretary@ilkleychoral.org.uk or 07758742831. You are advised to apply at the earliest opportunity.

"Tickets for the concert are available from our usual locations, priced £20 (under 18s and F/T students free)."