Bollington Festival Choir, conducted by Donald Judge, turns its gaze onto French music in a perfect programme for a summer evening. Although written for church performance and a full orchestra, Gounod’s delightful Mass, dedicated to the patron saint of music, lends itself to piano accompaniment, played by Rosalind Hall.
Its varied movements include solos and a vocal trio juxtaposed with the full chorus. It’s unashamedly direct and uplifting, wearing its heart on its sleeve and abounding in melody. It’s the one work in Part Two of the concert and concludes with three short “prayers” – in reality rousing hymns.
Part One contains three more short French choral works, and several items from the Choir’s talented soloists. Everything from Breton folk music with penny whistle, a saxophone solo, and songs sacred and secular, the best known of which will be the Flower Duet made famous by the British Airways advertisements.
The Interval will include refreshments and a chance to buy tickets for the choir’s spectacular raffle that helps keep ticket prices the same as from long before Covid, despite rising costs.
The licensed bar may be open and only accepts card payments. However, only cash can be accepted for tickets, the raffle, and tea, coffee, squash provided by the Choir.
Tickets Full Price £10, £3 for 18’s and under.
Tickets can be reserved on 01625 575554 and paid for on the door. Cash only please!
