Kington Choral Society to perform Handel's Joshua at a Presteigne church

Kington Choral Society and the Marches Camerata will present Handel’s oratorio ‘Joshua’ under the baton of Musical Director Simon Harper in St Andrew's Church in Presteigne on Friday. November 20.

English oratorios are an almost unique musical form with the excitement and drama of an opera combined with the thrilling combination of solo singers, expressive singing from a large choir and the support of a small orchestra, but without scenery or staging.

Joshua is Handel at his most immediate and theatrical: vivid battle music, ceremonial marches, vigorous choruses and moments of striking tenderness.

Although not as immediately familiar as Messiah, this oratorio has all the hallmarks of Handel’s larger and more well-known work.

The concert will feature soprano Helena Moore, countertenor Daniel Gethin, tenor James Beddoe and bass Robert Pritchard.

Simon Harper said; “The story follows a similar pattern to the hugely successful Judas Maccabaeus with tales of military battles and the defeat of the enemy, but also introduces a tender love story between a young soldier and the daughter of Joshua’s right-hand man. It is one of my favourite Handel oratorios.”

Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

Tickets are £18 and can be bought in person from Deli Tinto, Presteigne; Border Bean, Kington and Tower House Gallery, Knighton.

Music lovers can also buy online via the choir’s website kingtonchoral.org.uk.