Don’t confine yourself to singing in the shower – there’s a show that wants your voice! Wellington’s School Choral Society is now recruiting singers of all ages and abilities for its spring extravaganza, the Requiem by Verdi to be performed on march 3rd.
“Following the great successes of Carmina Burana (2007) and A Night at the Opera (2009), the Choral Society returns and remusters in January to rehearse a true choral masterpiece – Verdi’s epic Requiem,” writes musical director Andrew Trewellha.
“It is – without doubt – one of the best-loved choral works, at once achingly moving and thrillingly dramatic – the opening bars of the Dies Irae are amongst the most electrifying in the repertoire! The gala concert with massed forces, will once again take place in the Princess Royal Sports Hall.
“As ever, we are looking for as many singers as possible – parents, pupils, staff, governors, family, friends and those from the locality who just fancy a good sing. As has become customary, the grown-up singers will be complemented by our own acclaimed Chapel Choir and a Children’s Chorus and the resultant body of singers will be accompanied by a professional symphony orchestra.
“As before, rehearsals will take place on Thursday evenings, 7-9pm, starting on 10 January, through February and early March, ahead of the concert on Sunday 3. Rehearsals will take place in the George Corner Music School, on the senior school site. There will, as ever, be a bar running during the interval each week, facilitating both a breather and a chance to socialise.
“I very much hope you’ll join us – it’s very much a case of the more the merrier, so bring lots of friends along with you for moral support! Enthusiasm is a more essential attribute than experience, though this should in no way deter more seasoned singers. So, what are you waiting for? Come and shake off the January blues with a robust, stirring big sing each week. Senior pupils are more than welcome to come along as well – I will be speaking to the housestaff about this in the coming days, but do encourage them at home, too.
“In the initial instance, all you need do to register your interest is simply drop me an email to the department – music@wellington-school.org.uk using ‘Verdi’ as the subject, please. If possible, please also include your preferred voice part, but don’t worry if you are unsure about this. Once I have heard back from you, I will then send out an email before the end of term, confirming all the details and arrangements, along with a copy of the rehearsal schedule.
“This promises to be another wonderfully exuberant event, involving youngsters and adults from all areas of the community of both Wellington Schools and the locality. I do hope you’ll want to play a part in it.
“I very much look forward to hearing from you.”
Kind regards,
Andrew Trewhella