Future Concerts


Verdi’s Requiem 

On 9th March, Chorley Guild Singers will present its major concert for 2024 at St. Laurence’s Church, Chorley (7:30pm).

Verdi’s Requiem was originally described by its critics as “opera in ecclesiastical costume,” but this was rebutted by Brahms who said, “only a genius could have written such a work.”

It has since become a much -performed work by large choral societies and orchestras. This has made it inaccessible to choirs such as Chorley Guild Singers, however the recent arrangement by Richard Blackwell brought it very much to our attention. The orchestra is replaced by two pianos with organ and percussion. This means that smaller choirs such as ours can have the thrill of performing such a work. There are four very fine soloists to complete the line-up. They are essential for this music with many glorious ensemble pieces.

Everyone will know the opening section of the “Dies Irae” (day of anger) as it is often used to provide dramatic music for TV advertisements such as Audi Q8 and the Peugeot 407. As well as the dramatic it also has plenty of beautiful melodies such as the “Lacrymosa” (Lamentations) when you can hear the weeping and mourning in the rise and flow of the music.

We hope we can welcome you to St.Laurence’s Church Chorley at 7:30pm,  9th March  for this unique experience in the cultural life of the town.