OUR final concert before breaking for the summer took place on June 21 in Salisbury Cathedral, where we joined the Salisbury Musical Society, Salisbury Symphony Orchestra, Salisbury Cathedral Choir and the Cathedral Junior Choir for a performance of Stanford’s Songs of the Fleet and then, as the chamber choir, in Bob Chilcott’s Salisbury Vespers in the presence of the composer. It was a marvellous performance, and most enjoyable for the performers. However, they did not get the standing ovation they deserved, as unfortunately the final bars of the Salisbury Vespers gained an unwelcome accompaniment of the cathedral fire alarm, forcing an evacuation of the audience and choirs whilst the orchestra played on.

The new season started with a packed audience in a concert with the Bournemouth Male Voice choir at Christchurch Priory on October 11 in aid of the Mayor of Bournemouth’s Charity.

The choir is now preparing for a busy Christmas period, including singing at the Salisbury Christmas Market followed by the Christmas Tree Festival in St Thomas’s Church, both events becoming regular fixtures in the choir’s diary.

The choir’s popular Magic of Christmas concert will be entering its 24th year, and will be held in St Thomas’ Church on Saturday, December 20 at 7.30pm, in aid of Salisbury Trust for the Homeless (stfh.org.uk).

The concert will include a mixture of traditional carols and Christmas music, including extracts from Handel’s Messiah.

There will be carols for audience participation, and guest solo spots by soprano Jessica Broad, former Goldophin School pupil, which will ensure there is enjoyment for all.

Tickets £10 in advance from Musicroom, Catherine Street, Salisbury, telephone 01722 328181, or £12 on the door. In the New Year the choir will be singing the services at Salisbury Cathedral over the weekend of January 2/3. Further information about joining the choir of its concerts can be found at stjohnsingers.org. Alternatively, email musical director John Powell at johnofsal@aol.com or telephone 01722 335482.