On the 18th November Ilkley and Otley Choral Societies say farewell to their Musical Director for the past three years, Jennifer Sterling. She is to be succeeded in January 2024 by Alex Kyle.
This concert is notable for its unusual main work: Ethel Smyth’s “Mass in D”, is very rarely performed and this is possibly the first performance in this area. The choirs will be accompanied by a small orchestra, four soloists and conducted for the final time by Jenny Sterling.
A spokesperson for the societies said: “The concert will take place in St. Margaret’s Church in Ilkley commencing at 7pm. Tickets will be available at the door, but as a big audience is expected for this concert, it is advisable to obtain in advance.
“Whilst studying at Lepzig, Smyth, [born 1858] came across Grieg and Brahms, and the first half of the concert will comprise of short choral works by Brahms and Grieg’s “Holberg Suite” for string orchestra. Smyth was the first British female composer to be honoured with a damehood. She was also very much involved in the suffragette movement and in 1910 her “March of the Women” became the anthem for that movement. An interesting lady, and one of her main works deserves to be heard.
“Please join the societies on 18th November, you will be very welcome.”
Tickets are available priced £18 which includes interval refreshments and programme, from: The Grove Bookshop in Ilkley; Brown’s Art Gallery in Otley (cash only); from members and online via Eventbrite.
In December, Ilkley and Otley Choral Societies are giving anyone who enjoys choral singing and has a basic sight reading ability, to join them for a singing Handel’s “Messiah” workshop.
“Our rehearsals for this concert are in Christchurch, The Grove, Ilkley, at 7.30pm on the 20th and 27th November and 4th and 11th December. There will be an afternoon dress rehearsal before the performance in the evening, and times will be confirmed later. There will be a charge of £25 for the full package i.e. four Monday rehearsals and the Saturday 16th December.
“Please contact our secretary secretary@ilkleychoral.org.uk or 07758 742831 to book a place as space is limited. You will be given a very warm welcome.”