Gloria! Amateur singers invited to 1-day choral workshop

Amateur singers of all kinds can learn not one, but two, much-loved choral works at a special ‘Come & Sing’ one-day workshop in Worcester on Saturday 23 April 2022. 

The event, hosted by Worcester Festival Choral Society, will give singers the chance to learn or reprise both Antonio Vivaldi's famously joyful Baroque masterwork, Gloria, and John Rutter's thrilling, more recent Gloria. 

Around 150 amateur singers from across the country are expected to take part in the annual workshop, which is being held in the convivial surroundings of St Andrew’s Church, Pump Street just off Worcester High Street. As well as singing sessions, the day will include insights into each work, vocal tips, an informal performance and a chance to socialise with other musically minded people.

The workshop will be led by Worcester Cathedral’s former assistant director of music and WFCS conductor, Christopher Allsop, with piano accompaniment from WFCS accompanist Nicholas Freestone, who is the Cathedral’s current assistant director of music. Registration will open from 9:30am on the day, with singing sessions starting at 10:15am and concluding at 4.30pm. 

Ben Cooper, Chairman of Worcester Festival Choral Society, confirmed: “We have a brilliant day in store, singing through both of these wonderful Glorias under the baton of such an interesting and talented conductor. You don’t need choral experience or a great voice to take part, just a love of singing. And if you can read music a little, you’ll be able to get the most from the day.” 

Event host Worcester Festival Choral Society, which comprises 150, auditioned amateur singers, is one of England's most respected choirs of its kind. Closely associated with Sir Edward Elgar in its early years, the independent, self-funded Society is currently celebrating its 160th concert season. Its annual Come & Sing workshop is one of its most popular events, and complements the three major choral concerts the Society performs each year in Worcester Cathedral.

Come & Sing tickets are £20 (adults) and £10 (full time students), including a vocal score for the day and free tea/coffee. For lunch, singers can either pre-order a delicious packed lunch with their ticket, or visit one of Worcester’s many nearby cafés. To book online or by post, click HERE