Classical: A trio of choral concerts

Conducted by Sir Mark Elder, who has already made a recording of the work hailed as the outstanding performance in modern times, he brings a star-studded trio of soloists, with the young tenor, David Butt Philip, as the dying Gerontius; the contralto, Claudia Huckle, who last year sang Erda in Opera North’s presentation of Wagner’s Ring Cycle, and the famous bass, Neal Davies.

With the refurbishment of Bradford’s St George’s Hall still some way from completion, the Bradford Festival Choral Society has had to look elsewhere for its prestigious season of concerts, choosing the Price Hall at Bradford Grammar School for their performance of The Dream of Gerontius. Their soloists are Peter Davoren, Hanna Mason, and the much travelled opera star, Keel Watson. The society’s Music Director, Thomas Leech, conducts. (November 18).

On the horizon, and at the same venue, they have a short and traditional Yorkshire Christmas celebration(December 16), and an evening of ‘Baroque Splendour’ when they are joined by a period instrument ensemble in music by Gabrielli, Monteverdi, Schutz and Purcell (March 17).

Tickets for York Minster on November 4 on 01751 475777; for the Bradford season from www.Bradfordfestivalchoralsociety.org.uk