The annual series of summer concerts at St Mary’s Church is now well under way. A regular seasonal feature at the church since the 1890s, the concerts attract audiences from far and wide. On Thursday, June 27, St Mary’s Church Choir will present their Summer Concert.

The choir will sing a wonderfully varied selection of sacred choral music, featuring motets from the Renaissance period to the present day. Composers such as Palestrina, Tallis, J S Bach, Mendelssohn and Vaughan-Williams are represented in the programme alongside some more contemporary composers and arrangers. The choir will be led by choirmaster Mark Thompson, supported by Judy Davies, and accompanied by Dr. John Harrison at the organ.

Also taking centre stage will be sisters Nell and Marilla Evans who will be the soloists for the evening. Both girls have recently achieved success at the National Urdd Eisteddfod and will entertain the audience with their captivating performances on oboe and trumpet. Entrance is just £5 on the door.

December 2019 will see the choir and organ celebrate 150 years of service to St. Mary’s Church. As well as singing at regular choral services, the choir has continued to provide special music for major church festivals, present concerts and contribute to a range of other events. They have sung on TV and radio, including appearances on ‘Songs of Praise’.

To mark this major milestone, several events are currently being planned alongside the production of a booklet tracing the history of musical activity at the church.

The church would be pleased to hear from former choristers who may have photographs, stories and memorabilia that could be useful in the preparation of this publication. If you have anything you think may be of interest, please contact [email protected]

As well as looking back, the church also has a responsibility to ensure the future of the musical life at St. Mary’s Church, and are always delighted to hear from any prospective new choristers. If you, or someone you know, has an ability or interest in choral singing and may be interested in joining, please contact Mark Thompson at [email protected].