The full glory of Handel’s Messiah was enjoyed by a capacity audience for Calne Choral’s Christmas concert.

The 60-strong choir, under the leadership of Philip Springate, just goes from strength to strength. Accompanied by a full orchestra the choir did justice to this oratorio, arguably the greatest choral oratorio ever written.

The four distinguished soloists, all based in London, who perform internationally, included the soprano, Gwendolin Martin, who was brought up in Calstone, and now sings with the renowned Monteverdi Choir and the Marian Consort. The counter tenor, Rory McCleery, gave a virtuoso performance and tenor Peter Harris and Bass, Paul Fletcher, sang with awe-inspiring authority.

Following the interval, spiced up with mulled wine and mince pies, the audience joined in carols and John Hobbs delighted everyone with readings relating to the Christmas season.

The society’s next concert is scheduled for March 21, at St Mary’s School, Calne, with a performance of Haydn’s Mass in B Flat Major and Chilcott’s Requiem. They will again be accompanied by a full orchestra and professional soloists.

CAROLE BROWNE