Phoenix Choir of Crawley are inviting anyone interested in singing to join them to sing The Dream of Gerontius. The choir is also holding a full day workshop on Elgar’s seminal oratorio, on Saturday 3rd February 2018, 10am to 4pm at Crawley Baptist Church, Crabtree Road, West Green, Crawley RH11 7HJ. The workshop is part of the preparation for a performance of this popular concert piece at The Hawth Theatre, Crawley, on 24th March.
Led by Phoenix Choir’s musical director, Samuel Hayes, with the three professional soloists who will be in the performance, the workshop offers the opportunity to explore the music and themes of this choral masterpiece. Soloists are Jennifer Westwood (mezzo soprano), Tom Raskin (tenor) and Quentin Hayes (baritone).
Guest singers will pay £45 for membership for one full term (starting on 11th January) including the workshop and performance; £35 for the workshop, the following seven Thursday evening rehearsals (at Holy Trinity School, Gossops Green, 7.45pm to 9.45pm) and to take part in the performance; £15 to attend the workshop only. Music (published by Novello) can be hired for £3.
The poem, The Dream of Gerontius, upon which Elgar’s work is based, was written by the famous British theologian, John Henry Newman and describes Gerontius’ emotional and spiritual journey as he passes from life, through death, into the afterlife to come face to face with God. It was a poem that inspired many prominent Britons over a century ago, including Elgar himself.
For more information about how to participate, phone 01293 515287 or visit www.phoenixchoircrawley.org
