Acclaimed Chamber Choir Brings the Music of Christmas to Headingley

Over 60 people braved Storm Darragh last Saturday afternoon to reach St Michael’s Church in Headingley and listen to Leeds Guild of Singers’ Christmas concert, entitled “Ring the Bells!” Their perseverance was rewarded with a heartwarming performance of seasonal choral music by one of Yorkshire’s finest choirs.

Musical Director, Benjamin Kirk, led the more than 30 singers in a programme of music from a wide range of musical eras and styles, with works from well-known composers alongside pieces that the audience had never heard before. The theme of ringing bells was woven through the concert, from the familiar “Carol of the Bells” to Rachmaninoff’s depiction of sonorous Russian bells.

Particular highlights were the rousing “Wassail!” composed by one of the choir’s own members, Alistair Wood, and the timeless “The Lamb” by John Tavener. LGS made good use of the space of this Victorian venue, from their opening Gregorian chant at the back of the church to the evocative “Genuit Puerpera” by Italian composer Giovanni Bonato, where the singers surrounded the audience.

Everyone joined in the much-loved congregational carols accompanied by Tony Whatmough on organ, and the choir rounded off the afternoon with an encore of “We wish you a Merry Christmas”, after which the church served festive refreshments. Proceeds from the concert went to the church’s funds and charitable appeals.

Among the audience feedback were comments that the concert was “Sheer magic!”, “Truly beautiful” and “A wonderful start to Christmas”. As they stepped back outside into the storm, these concert-goers held the soothing melodies of Christmas in their hearts.

Leeds Guild of Singers will perform this programme again this Sunday 15 December at 3pm at Adel Parish Church (LS16 8DE). Tickets are still available online with limited availability on the door. Free entry for students and under 18s. Visit leedsguildofsingers.org.uk for more information.