Three Spires Singers and Orchestra, Truro Choral Society

A rare opportunity to hear the combined forces of two large choirs and big orchestra performing this much-loved work by a famous and popular composer.

The oratorio, which is sung in English, takes its words from the Old Testament of the Bible to tell the story of the prophet Elijah. It is an intensely dramatic work at times, with the noise and fury of crowds and warring Gods, for example, or the ascent of a fiery chariot into heaven, portrayed in stirring and colourful music from orchestra and chorus. There are contemplative, beautiful moments, too – such as the resurrection of a dead youth, or the coming of rain after a deadly drought.

Four vocal soloists – bass-baritone, tenor, alto and soprano – have memorably tuneful arias as well as sometimes combining in duets, trios and quartets. The work as a whole is never dull for a moment – in fact, you will be amazed by how many melodies, dramatic scenes, wonderfully tender moments have been packed into this mid-nineteenth-century masterpiece.

Soloists will be Christopher Cull, Alexander James Edwards, Catherine Carby and Anita Watson, and the conductor will be Director of Music at Truro Cathedral, Christopher Gray.