Crouch End Festival Chorus, London Orchestra da Camera, Sir Willard White, Ben Johnson (1), James Dillon, Erica Eloff, Diana Moore

Celebrated north London choir Crouch End Festival Chorus have scored a coup by signing up Cardiff Singer of the World audience favourite Ben Johnson for their upcoming performance of Mendelssohn’s great oratorio Elijah.

Tenor soloist Johnson will share the stage with legendary opera star Sir Willard White who performs the role of Elijah, at the Barbican Centre concert on Sunday 13 October 2013.

Crouch End Festival Chorus are known for their eclectic repertoire and busy schedule, broadcasting regularly on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM, performing with rock greats Noel Gallagher and Ray Davies, and recording soundtracks for film and TV, including Doctor Who.

Ben Johnson, who represented England at the prestigious Cardiff Singer of the World competition, won the Audience Prize in a tough contest against the world’s top young singers. A graduate of the Royal College of Music, Johnson won the Kathleen Ferrier Award in 2008 and performs regularly with the UK’s major opera companies.

The Jamaican-born bass-baritone, Sir Willard White, known especially for his portrayal of Porgy in George Gershwin’s opera Porgy and Bess, will also be a major draw for audiences as the choir builds momentum towards its 30th anniversary in 2014.

Conducted by David Temple.