Chester Summer Music festival 2009 unveils the year’s big hitters

Jun 25 2009 by Michael Green, Chester Chronicle

The Chester Summer Music Festival will take place this year between July 2–18 and will explore the voice and music written for the voice.

The exciting programme consists of 10 evening concerts, six lunch-time performances, an education programme and Saturday’s interactive event, the Big Sing.

Andrew Cornall, artistic director of the Liverpool Philharmonic, is the artistic director for the second year running and again brings his knowledge and experience to the festival.

As part of the programme, there are four events that will take place at the stunning surroundings of Chester Cathedral and will feature some of the best local and national musicians.

The opening concert on Thursday, July 2, of the festival celebrates Chetham’s School 40th Anniversary, bringing an evening of wonderful British music.

Tracy Lynn, director of Chester Festivals, said: “Chetham’s students perform all over the country and are regular prize-winners, which is a testament to the quality of their work.”

Manchester Camerata will also be performing at the Cathedral on Friday, July 10 with a challenging programme that features music from the 18th century to the 21st century.

On Saturday, July 11, there is a fantastic opportunity to hear one of Britain’s most famous choirs at the cathedral with the BBC Singers.

If you enjoyed BBC’s Last Choir Standing series then this will be a great way to spend your Saturday night.

The final concert in the Chester Summer Music Festival will hear the cathedral come alive with music and song in a concert performed by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the Chester Festival Chorus, on Saturday, July 18, again in the cathedral.

For the full programme and to book tickets, visit the website www.chesterfestivals.co.uk or phone the box office on 0845 2417868.