BRADFORD Festival Choral Society and Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra return to St George’s Hall for a performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah.
The concert, on Saturday, March 16 at 7.30pm, is for anyone - whether a seasoned aficionado of classical music or a newcomer to choral classics.
In 1849 the first full performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah in Bradford captivated audiences at the old Mechanics’ Institute, with all seats filled. Witnessing the success of the concert, the Mayor recognised the need for a dedicated concert venue for Bradford. Less than four years later, St George’s Hall opened its doors and Bradford Festival Choral Society was formed as a direct result of the very first concerts there.
The choir’s conductor, Thomas Leech, reveals what we can expect from this latest classical collaboration: “From fire and brimstone to moments of serenity, Mendelssohn’s masterpiece will take the audience on an emotional rollercoaster guided by the exquisite performances of renowned soloists such as Gareth John Brynmor (BBC Carols from King’s 2022), Yorkshire-based opera and oratorio star Hannah Mason, and Sofia Livotov (Opera North). The chorus can sing their hearts out in the many powerful moments!”
Chair of Trustees Sara Daniel says: “We’re proud of the history of our choir and connections with St George’s Hall, and we’re delighted to be welcomed back as part of the orchestral concert season for the second year running.
"Elijah was part of the BBC Proms in 2023, we’re hopeful that if London can fill the Royal Albert Hall, the people of Yorkshire can help us fill St George’s for a superb evening of music.”
The choir produces concert programmes that guide audiences through the music. Ben Crick, the orchestra’s founder and artistic director says: “We’re often asked by people not familiar with classical concerts: ‘Where do I clap?’ Well, the tradition in a piece of music like this is to clap at the end of the first half before the interval, and again at the end.
"We’re often delighted when people are moved enough to clap after a particular section, there is no problem with this, only that the musicians may not be expecting it!”
* Visit bradford-theatres.co.uk or call (01274) 432000.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here