Chorus on song at Brighton church

Chorus spokesman Neil Fraser-Smith said: “Brighton Festival Chorus had an exciting and eventful 2011. Highlights included critically acclaimed performances of Dove, There Was a Child and Beethoven, Fidelio for the Brighton Festival, a rare performance of Brian, Gothic Symphony during the first weekend of the BBC Proms, and two episodes of Songs of Praise Big Sing for the BBC.

“In addition to this, the Chorus featured on three chart-topping classical CDs, Joe McElderry, Classic and Classic Christmas and Alfie Boe, Bring Him Home. They provided choral backing for Alfie Boe at the Royal Festival Hall and Brighton Dome and appeared on the resultant DVD along with his guests, Matt Lucas and Mel C.

“In this, their first concert of 2012, Brighton Festival Chorus join forces with the Brodsky Quartet to present a late evening concert. The concert will include contemporary work by Tarik O’Regan, The Ecstasies Above, Osvaldo Golijov, Tenebrae and a stunning arrangement of one of Mahler’s Rückert-Lieder for a capella chorus.

Tickets are priced at £18/£12 and are available from Brighton Dome Box Office, New Road, Brighton on 01273 709709 or online at http://www.brightonticketshop.com/

Neil added: “Since its formation in 1968, Brighton Festival Chorus has developed a well-earned reputation as one of the most versatile choirs in the UK, competing with London-based choirs in its busy schedule of concerts and recordings. The Chorus has gained the respect of many leading conductors and orchestras for its consistently high standards and for the breadth of repertoire that it performs, and was named one of the top five choirs in the UK by The Times in 2009.

“The Brodsky Quartet was formed in 1972 and has not only emerged at the forefront of the international chamber music scene, but also collaborated with pop and rock stars including Björk, Elvis Costello and Paul McCartney. It has performed more than 2000 concerts and has made more than fifty highly acclaimed recordings.

“Young British composer, Tarik O’Regan, is widely regarded as one of the most original and lyrical voices of his generation. His work has gained two 2009 GRAMMY nominations (including Best Classical Album) and two British Composer Awards.”