Sarah to lead choral group (From Stroud News and Journal)

Sarah to lead choral group

RENOWNED Mezzo Soprano Sarah Connolly has been announced as the new president for Stroud Choral Society.

"The society approached Ms Connolly a few weeks ago," said society chairman Stewart Price, "and were not only delighted by her acceptance but impressed by her willingness to attend some rehearsals, help recruit new members and offer advice from her vast experience of choral singing."

Sarah Connolly's impressive CV includes performances at La Scala, Milan, English National Opera, Scottish National Opera, The Salzburg Festival and The Metropolitan Opera.

She has also been nominated for an Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Opera. She has made many recordings, and the following currently available discs have all won Editor's Choice in Gramophone Magazine - Heroes and Heroines a disc of Handel arias, The Exquisite Hour recorded live at St John's, Smith Square and Mozart Mass in C Minor with the Gabrieli Consort.

"We are immensely fortunate to have a new president of the calibre and energy of Sarah Connolly," added Stewart Price. "We look forward to a creative and exciting partnership."

Since the society's new conductor, Benjamin Nicholas, took over 18 months ago, membership numbers have increased by 30 percent and one of Ms Connolly's aims is to help the society in its bid to encourage more (young!) men to join to create a better balance of voices.

Anyone who fits this category is encouraged to attend a rehearsal on Monday nights between 7.30pm and 9pm at St Laurence's Church Hall, Stroud - for a free taster session.