The Crook and Weardale Choral Singers

This group was formed in 1995 under the direction of Roger Kelly and attracts singers from all over the area. We always welcome those who would like to join as long as they can sing sweetly, fit in with the group socially and harmoniously and believe in what we sing. We do ask singers to commit themselves to 80% attendance at practices We rehearse on a Tuesday night in St. Cuthbert's School Hall, Church Hill, Crook from 7.30.p.m. - 9.15.p.m. approximately. Weekly subs are £1.50. If you are interested please ring ROGER KELLY ON 01388 730495. Our repertoire is varied and includes classical and sacred pieces. We have sung Messiah; Haydn's Creation; Stainer Crucifixion; Maunder's Olivet to Calvary; Coleridge Taylor's Hiawatha, Faure Requiem and many songs and Anthems for four part choirs. In 2000 the choir sang Handel's Messiah for the first time to the accompaniment of an orchestra in St. Cuthbert's Chapel, Ushaw College Chapel. With us on that occasion was the Durham Sinfonia and soloists, Pat Austin, Kathryn Crowder, Paul Smith and Simon Tasker. In 2004 the choir repeated the experience of singing with an orchestra with Vivaldi's Gloria in Wolsingham Methodist Chapel. Spring 2005 brought performances of Haydn's Creation in Blanchland Abbey and Stanley Crook. The Autumn of 2005 promises Faure's Requiem at Ushaw College, Vaughan Williams Fantasia on Christmas Carols in Wolsingham and Frosterley with the Spring offering Mauder's Olivet to Calvary and post Easter the joyful Vaughan Williams Five Mystical Songs. Anyone interested in coming to concerts or getting information on our work in the area can contact Mary our Members' Secretary on 01388762722