Choir looking for reinforcements for rehearsal.

Birmingham Bach Choir, led by Musical Director Paul Spicer, invite singers from across the West Midlands to join their ranks for an open rehearsal of a much loved choral classic.

The annual Come And Sing event, which takes place on Saturday 7th February 2014 at Selly Oak Methodist Church, Birmingham, sees the internationally acclaimed choir explore Gabriel Fauré’s popular Requiem.

One of the most famous and accomplished composers of the late 19th and early 20th century, Fauré penned Requiem in the late 1800s, revising it over several years. In seven movements, the fourth segment, Pie Jesu, is arguably the most familiar.

Requiem is a favourite of such personalities as ballerina and Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell, writers Roald Dahl and Sebastian Faulks, filmmaker Alan Parker, actor Ewan McGregor and comedian Bill Bailey, who all selected the choral work for their appearance on BBC Radio 4’s long-running Desert Island Discs.

The relaxed, informal and inspired afternoon workshop/ rehearsal will be led by the choir’s Musical Director and conductor Paul Spicer, whose recent recording of works by composer Herbert Howells was heralded as one of the best classical releases of 2014 by The Gramophone. Also in attendance will be soloists Elizabeth Adams and Tim Emberson, from Birmingham Conservatoire.

Sarah Platt, Birmingham Bach Choir’s Chair, said: “Our Come And Sing events are friendly and welcoming, and Requiem is a sublime masterpiece containing some of the composer’s most beautiful melodies. Additionally, the afternoon is a great way to find out more about the choir, which features people from all walks of life from right across the region, and also check out our famed homemade cakes!”

Tickets for the workshop cost just £10 with tea and cakes. Bring your own score or hire one for £1. For more information, including booking forms, see: www.birmingham.bachchoir.com or call 07901 798442 to reserve your place.