BBC Proms bass to perform with choral society for Mozart’s Requiem at Worcester Cathedral

The region’s leading large classical choir, Worcester Festival Choral Society, is bringing Mozart's mighty Requiem to Worcester Cathedral on Saturday 16 November at 7.30pm – joined by four, internationally acclaimed soloists.

Appearing with the 150-strong choir will be soprano Alexandra Kidgell who is a member of The Sixteen, mezzo-soprano Jennifer Westwood who sings with The Royal Opera, opera and oratorio tenor soloist Tom Robson and outstanding bass David Shipley (pictured left) – who in August sang bass solo in Mozart’s Requiem at the Royal Albert Hall, watched by millions of BBC Proms 2019 viewers.

Mozart's intensely beautiful Requiem is one of choral music's most intriguing legends. Written in 1791 it was his final work, commissioned by a mysterious patron but left unfinished by the composer’s early death at only 35. From the fire and brimstone of the Dies Irae to the mournful Lacrymosa, this well-known work will be recognised by many from the soundtrack of multi-Oscar-winning 1984 film, Amadeus.

The concert also includes a more recent classic with City connections. Lux Perpetua is a stunning war requiem written in 1998 by Worcester-born contemporary composer Jonathan Willcocks – son of conductor and composer Sir David Willcocks – on the theme of peace and unity.

Accompanying will be the Meridian Sinfonia symphony orchestra. Worcester Cathedral’s new Director of Music, Samuel Hudson, makes in his first appearance as the Choral Society’s conductor.

Ben Cooper, Chairman of Worcester Festival Choral Society, confirmed: “We’re extremely excited to bring Mozart’s wonderful Requiem to Worcester Cathedral, especially under the baton of our talented new music director Samuel Hudson. Lux Perpetua is another wonderful work, which we’re thrilled to be performing in the composer’s home town. We’re expecting a packed Cathedral!”

Ten lucky concert-goers could also win dinner before the show. “Anyone booking tickets through our WFCS website can opt in to a prize draw, with the chance of winning one of five pre-concert dinners for two at Côte Restaurant in Worcester,” adds Ben.

Concert tickets (£10 - £25, some concessions available) are available at www.wfcs.online and from Worcester Live Box Office, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, tel: 01905 611427.