A CHORAL society is starting rehearsals for its next concert.

Maldon Choral Society starts work on its new production of The Passion Of Christ by Sir Arthur Somervell today.

The rehearsals take place at All Saints’ Primary School in Highlands Drive, Maldon, on Thursdays from 7.30pm.

Musical director Gillian Ward Russell chose oratorio, which was written in 1914 by the English composer.

She said: “I chose the Somervell because it is lovely to sing and tuneful to listen to, and in particular it gives the audience opportunities to sing hymns with us at various points in the work.

“It tells the story of Christ’s Passion and as such is appropriate for the period before Easter.

“In style and format it is along the same lines as the better-known Stainer’s Crucifixion.

“Although sacred in nature, our performance will be presented as a concert and not a service, and therefore I hope will attract both people who enjoy good choral music and those who wish to treat it as a devotional experience.”

Sir Arthur Somervell was considered one of the most successful and influential writers of art song in the English music renaissance of the 1890s and 1900s.

He is most famous for his adaptation of Handel’s Silent Worship.

A society spokesman added: “New members are always welcome and you can try for a few weeks before committing.

“This term’s rehearsals will be concentrating on preparation for the event.

“Feel free to come to one or more of our rehearsals and see what we are like.”

The spring concert will be performed at All Saints Church on Saturday, March 30.

For more details, call 01245 226551.