Brecon Singers directed by Robert Evans will perform Mendelssohn’s Elijah in St Mary’s Church, Brecon, next Saturday (May 18) at 7pm.
In this dramatic oratorio, written in early romantic style, the Old Testament prophet Elijah, challenges the worship of Baal and foreign idols in Israel during the reign of King Ahab and prophesies a drought. The story then recounts the three-year drought, the suffering of the Israelites and Elijah’s successful attempt to challenge Baal and entreat God for rain. Full of operatic drama it reaches a dramatic peak when Elijah finally ascends to heaven in flames.
The work will feature experienced professional soloists Susan Gilmour Bailey (soprano), Elizabeth Poole (mezzo soprano), Mark Dobell (tenor) and Ben Davies (bass).
It will also showcase Brecon Singers’ soprano choral scholar Martha Skibniewski-Woods, currently a pupil at Christ College, who will sing the role of the youth looking for rain clouds to assist Elijah.
Susan Gilmour Bailey performs opera, oratorio, consort and choral repertoire around the globe. She also teaches singing in Sussex and is passionate about inspiring pupils of all ages and abilities to find their voice.
Elizabeth Poole has performed and recorded extensively with many of the UK’s leading ensembles, including The Sixteen, King’s Consort and and Gabrielli Consort. She was a member of the BBC Singers and teaches at the Royal Academy of Music. Mark Dobell works as a soloist all over the world and also sings with many leading British choirs and consorts including The Sixteen, the Cardinal’s Musick and the Orlando Consort. He has been a member of the choir of Westminster Abbey since 2006.
Ben Davies has performed internationally in opera and as a soloist and consort singer with many choirs including The Sixteen and The King’s Consort. The choir will be supported by first-class professional musicians who can be relied upon to highlight the drama and passion of the work.
Brecon Singers look forward to welcoming all music lovers to the lovely St Mary’s Church, High Street, Brecon for a wonderful evening of inspiring music. Tickets £12 (under 18s £6) available from Ardent Gallery, High Street, Brecon and on the door.