Singers are being invited to raise their voices in celebration of Worcestershire’s most famous composer.
The Elgar Festival, held annually in honour of Worcestershire’s renowned composer Sir Edward Elgar, is calling on singers of all abilities to take part in a special Come and Sing event.
The event will be held on Saturday, November 14, at St Andrew’s Methodist Church in Worcester.
Participants will rehearse and informally perform Vaughan Williams’ Toward the Unknown Region, with the opportunity to sing two of Elgar’s part songs, Give Unto the Lord and As Torrents in Summer.
Kenneth Woods, artistic director of the Elgar Festival, said: “This is a fabulous opportunity for singers to be involved in a once-in-a-lifetime musical performance.
“Whether you’re a seasoned singer or returning after a break, come and explore this glorious music in a friendly, welcoming setting.
“Open to all voice parts with no audition required.
“Scores will be provided, or you’re welcome to bring your own copy.
“For those who would like to take this experience further, anyone taking part in the 2026 Come and Sing will also be welcome to join the Elgar Festival Chorus of 2027 to perform this and Szymanowski’s Veni Creator with a series of more intensive rehearsals planned in the new year.”
The day will be led by Stephen Shellard, chorus master for the Elgar Festival and director of the Worcester Cathedral Chamber Choir, with Piers Maxim as accompanist.
The 2027 Elgar Festival will run from Sunday, May 23, to Sunday, June 6.
It will feature symphonic and choral concerts, chamber music, workshops, recitals, masterclasses, street performances, a young composers’ competition, and other events.
Next year’s festival will be themed around Elgar’s unfinished Third Symphony and will also feature his work Polonia.
The programme will include pieces by Polish composers, including Panufnik and Szymanowski.
Venues across Worcester and beyond will host events, including Worcester Cathedral, The Guildhall, Malvern Priory, Pershore Abbey, and Elgar’s birthplace, The Firs.
The festival, launched in 2018, has since doubled in size and continues to expand each year.
For more information, visit elgarfestival.org.
