2 February 2020
The Chorus is busy preparing to sing the brass band version of Handel’s Messiah at Sheffield cathedral on Saturday 18 April 2020 at 7pm, with the world-famous Black Dyke Band.
‘We are all very excited about what is going to be a very special concert’ said Chorus Chairman Paul Henstridge, ‘Not only are we singing the brass band version of Handel’s wonderful work with probably the best brass band in the world. We are going to be joined by singers from Perigeux in France, and from Sheffield’s twin city of Bochum in Germany.’
The overseas singers are coming by invitation following recent visits by members of the Chorus to Perigeux and Bochum.
‘A small number of us joined the Bochum Choir to sing Messiah in English in February last year’ explained Chorus Finance Officer Graham Dawson, who organised the trips to Germany. ‘ More recently we went over to sing in their annual Christmas carol concert, and had a wonderful time joining in the local festivities. We got back just in time to sing in our own Christmas carol concert in the City Hall!’.
A group of Chorus members went to France with Music Director Darius Battiwalla in 2017, to sing in a special World War II memorial concert, a trip which was all the more memorable because it took place during Bastille Day celebrations with the World Cup final the following day.
‘We are thrilled that more than 50 singers are coming from the French and German choirs to sing Messiah with us’ said Chorus Administrator Anne Adams. ‘The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress are big fans of brass music and are joining us for the concert. And we’re planning a party afterwards at Cutlers Hall, so it’s going to be a really special occasion’
With over 200 singers, plus the fantastic Black Dyke Band, this will be a performance to remember. The concert starts at 7pm, and tickets are unallocated and cost £20, £5 for under 25s. Details on the Chorus website.