Horsforth Choral Society marked its 90th anniversary this month, with a varied and dynamic concert celebrating the music and composers of Leeds past and present. The 100-strong choir was delighted to welcome the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Jane Dowson, to the concert, as well as the president, Cllr Chris Townsley, and composers of some of the music, in the beautiful historic setting of St Margaret’s Church, Horsforth.

Cllr Dowson congratulated the choir, soloists and accompanists on their beautiful singing and playing, and said she had greatly enjoyed the variety of music performed, which set the scene for the coming Easter season. Cllr Townsley added: “It was a wonderful performance, all performed perfectly. I would like to thank and congratulate the choir on their success.”

The ambitious programme included Ralph Vaughan Williams’ work, Toward the Unknown Region, which premiered in Leeds in 1907. This stirring piece, based on a Walt Whitman poem, established Vaughan Williams - best known for his much-loved violin and piano work The Lark Ascending - as a new and important voice in English music.

The choir also sung music by contemporary Leeds composers, including Tim Knight’s Benedicite, Andrew Carter’s Easter Alleluya and the Ave Maria by Simon Lindley, Leeds City Organist Emeritus. There were also works by Edward Bairstow, who was organist of Leeds Parish Church between 1906 and 1913 before moving to York Minster, and by Philip Wilby, Professor Emeritus of the University of Leeds.

The choir’s Musical Director, Matthew Lazenby, said: “Leeds has a very rich musical heritage, and Horsforth Choral Society is proud to have been part of that since 1928. It is fascinating to ponder the changes and events the world has seen since we were formed, but the desire for music as a means of creating unity between singers and inspiring audiences has remained constant. We continue to share a passion for song with the public and look forward to an exciting future together.” Horsforth Choral Society is recruiting new members for its 90th anniversary season. All ages are welcome and no audition is necessary. For more information call 07854 079418 or email horsforthchoralsoc@gmail.com Find out more at www.horsforthchoralsociety.co.uk, or on Facebook and Twitter @HorsforthCS