Amateur tenors from across the region are being invited to join one of the county’s most prestigious classical choirs.

Worcester Festival Choral Society, which began almost 160 years ago and was often conducted by Sir Edward Elgar in its early days, currently has vacancies for additional tenor singers to join its highly-regarded, 140-strong chorus.

“If you sing tenor and think you might enjoy learning and performing the ‘classical choral greats’ with us in the magnificent setting of Worcester Cathedral, we’d love to hear from you!” says chairman Ben Cooper.

“You don’t necessarily need previous choral experience, but some ability to read music is an advantage. We’re a very friendly lot with members of all ages and always enjoy singing together. The main thing is a love of music!”

Led by Worcester Cathedral’s director of music Samuel Hudson, the society’s rehearsals are held in Worcester Cathedral on Monday evenings during term-times.

These lead to three major concerts each year at the cathedral, performing some of the world’s best-loved choral works such as Handel’s Messiah and Mozart’s Requiem – as well as more modern classics – alongside a professional orchestra and world-class soloists.

The choir’s next concert on Saturday, March 21 is sea-themed, including Vaughan Williams’ epic A Sea Symphony.

“Singing with WFCS is an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable experience, as well as a social opportunity,” said Ben.

“We also hold a popular Come And Sing workshop day, a quiz night and other activities. In addition members have the chance to apply for the renowned Three Choirs Festival Chorus each year.

“So come and try us out, with no obligation! If you then decide to join, only the membership fee for this term will apply.”

Interested tenors should contact membership secretary Sally Rees at worcesterchoral@outlook.com or call 01684 564721, then go along to rehearsal at Worcester Cathedral on Monday, January 20, from 7.30pm-9.30pm.

(No vacancies are currently available for singers of other voice parts).

For more details, go to the Society’s website, wfcs.online