Banbury Choral Society, a 100-voice ensemble, is preparing to present its annual Voices of Christmas concert at St Mary’s Church in Banbury on Saturday, December 12.
Musical director Jonathan Kingston will lead the choir through a selection of English choral pieces and traditional Christmas carols.
Kingston said the programme combines lesser-known compositions with familiar festive songs, giving concertgoers an opportunity to encounter the range, variety and emotional character of English choral music beyond standard Christmas repertoire.
The second half will focus on traditional carols, providing a contrast to the less familiar works featured earlier in the evening.
Cecilia McDowall’s Christus Natus Est has been selected as the opening item, followed by Bob Chilcott’s On Christmas Night.
Two compositions by Herbert Howells are also included: A Hymn for St Cecilia and Here is the Little Door.
Traditional carols and audience participation will bring the concert to its close.
Established in 1942, Banbury Choral Society has performed major choral works for audiences in Banbury and elsewhere across North Oxfordshire.
Its Christmas events are noted for taking place in the atmospheric surroundings of St Mary’s Church.
Doors will open at 7pm, with the concert beginning at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £16, while entry is free for students and people aged 16 or under.