A BROMSGROVE orchestra will perform the last of Beethoven's classic ninth symphony "The Choral" in May.

The Orchestra of St John will mark the achievement by performing at Worcester Cathedral on Saturday, May 5, under the direction of Richard Jenkinson.

Mr Jenkinson said “I’m very much looking forward to conducting the Orchestra for this concert.

"There can be no better place to spread Beethoven’s anthem of joy for mankind than the sublime setting of Worcester Cathedral.

"This concert also celebrates Worcestershire’s favourite son, Edward Elgar, in the Cathedral that meant so much to him.

"I am certain that our concert will be a real treat for the audience.”

The programme will also include Elgar’s Violin Concerto played by orchestra leader, Charlotte Moseley.

The soloists for the Choral Symphony include Claire Prewer (Soprano), William Theunissen (Tenor), Jane Stevenson (Alto) and David Coulson (Bass).

Orchestra manager Alastair Moseley said: “OSJ is unusual in that we are an established orchestra that each year invites singers to form a choir to perform with us, rather than the other way around! I expect a choir of around 100 voices, which coupled with our 60 strong orchestra will really raise the roof and make for an unforgettable experience for the audience, and the musicians!”

The Orchestra will be performing the same programme the week before in St John’s Church, Bromsgrove, on Saturday, April 28.

Tickets for St John’s Church are priced at £12 in advance or £14 on the door and at Worcester Cathedral range in price from £10 to £25.

To buy, visit osjbromsgrove.org.