Popular classicsongs for show

Spokeswoman Marilyn Crowch promised popular songs from around the world combined in an eclectic programme guaranteed to get feet tapping and hearts pounding.

“Audiences and performers who have experienced the songs of Africa are unfailingly enthused.

“The novel Les Misérables has enjoyed decades of success as a musical followed by the recent multi-award winning film. Featuring alongside will be Goodall’s famous theme tune to the hit BBC TV series The Vicar of Dibley, as well as popular works by Elgar, Britten, Gershwin, Franck, Chilcott and a host of other composers.

Call 01273 419665 or visit www.sussexvoiceworks.co.uk

In addition to a medley of spirituals and gospel hits, a selection of songs of Africa has been assembled as a musical tribute to honour the recently departed Nelson Mandela.

Bob Chilcott’s music is now performed throughout the world.

In addition to excerpts from his moving Jubilate there will be Andrew Carter’s electrifying Hodie which will open the programme in jubilant style.

Additional popular items will include Gershwin’s Summertime, Cesar Franck’s Panis Angelicus as well as works by Elgar and Britten.

Marilyn added: “Joining the choir will be guest soprano soloist Kathryn Sargent, who studied singing with Marjorie Thomas and David Johnston and holds diplomas from the Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music and Trinity College of Music.”

She has appeared numerous times as soloist in oratorio and concert works including Vaughan Williams’ A Sea Symphony, Strauss’ Four Last Songs, Berlioz’s Les Nuits D’Eté, Verdi’s Requiem and Britten’s War Requiem, Brahms’ Requiem, Rutter’s Magnificat and Mozart’s Solemn Vespers.

The solo part in Stuart Johnson’s Requiem was written specifically for her, and she gave the world premiere in Lichfield Cathedral as well as the London premiere.

She also appeared as soloist in a performance of Paul Patterson’s Millennium Mass at St John’s Smith Square in the presence of the composer.

Sussex Voiceworks was founded in 1974 and currently has around 100 members.

Since the appointment of director Peter Farrant 18 years ago, the choir has continued to flourish and expand with the creation of new opportunities including development workshops, festivals, tours, recordings, education initiatives and partnerships. Professional soloists and instrumentalists are regularly engaged.

The choir, a registered charity and affiliate of Making Music, has performed extensively both in the United Kingdom and abroad, touring France, Holland, Malta and Belgium. Throughout the year. choir members regularly present and participate in numerous concerts and functions in a variety of traditional and innovative venues, which have included the Royal Albert Hall.

Tickets for the performance on Saturday, June 21 are available in advance by calling 01273 419665. Any remaining tickets will be available on the door.