The group, which has over 70 singers and regularly performs with professional orchestras and soloists, has appointed prize-winning conductor James Morley Potter to the role of Harlow Chorus musical director.
James, who is also the precentor and director of music at Magdalene College, Cambridge, has a superb record of music making both at home and abroad and has put together an exciting and ambitious concert programme for the coming year, starting with Rossini’s Petite messe solennelle at St John’s Church in Epping on Saturday 1st November.
James Morley Potter, who has been appointed as Harlow Chorus musical director (Image: Harlow Chorus) In December, the choir will hold their regular community carol concert at St Stephen’s church in Harlow as well as presenting a programme of carols at Copped Hall in Epping. The spring concert in April features songs of the sea and travel.
The packed season will culminate with a grand 50th anniversary concert at the region’s most prestigious concert venue, Saffron Hall in Saffron Walden, when the Chorus will join forces with leading professional orchestra, The British Sinfonietta, and some of the finest soloists in the country for a performance of Mendelssohn’s epic oratorio, Elijah.
“It’s incredibly exciting to be taking the helm of Harlow Chorus in its 50th anniversary year,” says James. “There’s nothing quite as inspiring as massed voices joined together, sharing brilliant music.
“Over the course of this season, we’ll be celebrating that inspirational power finishing off with the supremely dramatic Elijah next July. I’m so looking forward to working with the choir and hopefully the programme will encourage new singers to give us a go as well.”
It takes place at the choir’s regular rehearsal room at St John’s Arts & Recreation Centre in Old Harlow and runs from 7.30pm to 10pm with a break for tea, coffee, cake and a friendly chat halfway through.
Music will be supplied – just turn up on the night and say hello. If you decide you want to join, membership is confirmed after a simple audition at a later date.
For more information visit www.harlowchorus.org.uk
