HARLOW Chorus’s 50th anniversary season started with a bang at St John’s Church, Epping, on Saturday night (1st November) with a dazzling performance of Rossini’s operatic Petite Messe Solonnelle, conducted by the choir’s new musical director James Potter reports Helen Miller

”I was blown away by the performance,” said Gareth Oakland who had travelled from Bishop’s Stortford for the concert.

“Four brilliant young soloists and some memorable set piece choruses delivered at pace. The finale – a superb solo mezzo with a seated chorus singing from memory – was simply stunning.”

Not even the crackle of a few fireworks going off nearby put the performers off their stride. It was a night of barnstorming choruses from the choir and glittering solos from Caroline Bourg (soprano), Louisa Stuart-Smith (mezzo soprano), Harry Jacques (tenor) and Jack Holton (bass).

Choir and soloists were accompanied by Aeron Preston and Sam Mitchell on piano, and Waltham Abbey organist Jonathan Lilley on the harmonium.

“A sparkling performance, full of energy and impact,” said Epping resident Kathryn Sperry. “Everyone combined to make this first performance under the choir’s new musical director a memorable occasion.”

The choir is now preparing for their annual family carol concert in Harlow, which will feature some very special guest singers – the children from the Purton Green Primary School choir. The concert will take place on Saturday 6th December at St Stephen’s Church in Harlow and starts at 6pm.

As well as plenty of Christmas music, audience carols and festive cheer, there will also be a chance to win a legendary Harlow Chorus deluxe Christmas hamper.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.harlowchorus.org.uk