The head of music at Harrogate’s Ashville College is aiming to raise thousands of pounds for a cancer charity by staging a concert with a difference in the school’s Soothill Hall next weekend. (Sunday, January 29)
Unlike other musical extravaganzas which take weeks and even months of careful rehearsals, John Dunford’s production of Handel’s Messiah is going to be performed from scratch in just one afternoon!
In order for it to be a success – and raise a significant amount for Marie Curie Cancer Care – Mr Dunford is appealing for members of the public to either come along and sing as part of the choir, or simply turn up to enjoy the performance.
Mr Dunford, a former cancer sufferer himself, has already secured the services of Wetherby Choral Society, Ripon Choral Society, Ashville Singers, Wetherby Pro Musica and four professional soloists.
The first rehearsal begins at 1pm on Sunday, January 29, with the concert being staged just two and a half hours later at 3.30pm!
He said:
Almost everyone knows someone whose life has been affected by some form of cancer – a friend or relation who has suffered from, or lost their fight with, the disease.
Having suffered cancer myself, which resulted in me requiring major surgery some four years ago, I am keen to do something that will help make a difference.
Handel’s great oratorio Messiah has, since its earliest years, been associated with charitable fundraising and I’m organising this Messiah From Scratch to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.
They provide nurses to support patients, families and carers, so that terminally ill cancer patients can die in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.
The cost for any adult either to sing in the huge choir, or to listen, is £10. School-aged pupils are being asked to decide for themselves the level donation they wish to give.
Mr Dunford added:
We want to make this an extraordinary community event! Anyone can join in and we urge people to come along and take part. It will be great fun and it’s raising money for a very worthy cause!
Anyone wishing to take part – or find out more – is asked to contact Mr Dunford on 01423 566358.
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