Stansted church to host unique choir performance

ST Mary the Virgin in Stansted Mountfitchet will be throwing open its doors and its history as it takes part in a unique series of choir performances. Birthday Song – on October 3 and 4 – sees 40 choirs performing in 40 of the most nationally signi

ST Mary the Virgin in Stansted Mountfitchet will be throwing open its doors and its history as it takes part in a unique series of choir performances.

Birthday Song - on October 3 and 4 - sees 40 choirs performing in 40 of the most nationally significant historic churches cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, which is celebrating its 40th birthday.

The charity is looking to provide local people with a unique opportunity to rediscover these magnificent buildings, including St Mary the Virgin which is home to nationally significant 17th century monuments.

The church, in Church Road, will welcome the De Merc Chamber Choir as they celebrate the bicentenary of the birth of Alfred, Lord Tennyson by singing choral settings of his poetry. Gems by Stanford and Parry will be performed as well as a host of 20th century works by such luminaries as Holst and Bob Chilcott.

Tennyson's poetry continues to inspire very recent compositions by Adrian Jolliffe and Russell Pascoe, all performed in de Merc's informal a cappella concert style.

The concert is being held on Sunday October 4 at 7.30pm. Entry is free. For more information contact Jane Fox in 01279 428967.

The Churches Conservation Trust aims to protect churches at risk. The charity cares for over 300 churches and ensures their future survival and protection.

To find out more about historic churches in Essex, visit www.visitchurches.org.uk