The Cathedral Series: Come and Sing Handel's Messiah
Participants can spend the afternoon rehearsing and then take to the stage for a live performance of Handel's famous oratorio, or attend as an audience member to listen to the concert. Conducted by Richard Gooding and accompanied on organ by Steven Maxson, the programme features familiar chorus pieces such as the Hallelujah Chorus alongside guest soloists.
What to Expect
Rehearse and perform Handel's Messiah or attend as an audience member.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Singers and classical music listeners
Vibe
Communal and uplifting
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
£
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Come & Sing tickets: £10. Audience-only tickets: £5; accompanied children free. The page also lists ticket prices including booking fee as £5.39–£10.78. – Get tickets
- Hours: Come & Sing rehearsal: 4:00–6:00pm; audience doors open: 6:30pm; concert starts: 7:30pm.
Tips & Advice
- Wear all black if you are singing, as this is the stated dress code for participating singers.
- Familiarize yourself with the Watkins Shaw edition of Messiah, published by Novello, which the singers will use.
- Plan to arrive after doors open at 6:30pm, leaving time before the concert starts at 7:30pm.
- Choose a singer ticket if you want to rehearse from 4:00 to 6:00pm and join the evening performance.
- Accompanied children can attend the audience performance for free, so consider the audience-only option when bringing children.
Special Events & Promotions
- Accompanied children attend the audience-only concert free.
- A separate Come & Sing ticket includes the afternoon rehearsal and evening performance.
- Audience-only tickets are available for the evening concert.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can take part in the Come & Sing performance?
Anyone is welcome, whether they sing regularly or have not used a score in years; there are no auditions.
What should singers wear and which score will they use?
Come & Sing participants should wear all black. The rehearsal uses the Watkins Shaw edition of Messiah, published by Novello.
Can I attend just to listen, and may children come?
Yes. Audience-only tickets are available, and accompanied children can attend free.
What music will be performed?
Handel’s Messiah includes the Hallelujah Chorus and “I know that my redeemer liveth,” with choir items and guest soloists.
Who leads and accompanies the concert?
Richard Gooding conducts, and Cathedral Director of Music Steven Maxson accompanies on organ.
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