An ambitious performance of a famous choral work is set to take place in Carlisle to mark the 100th anniversary of Gabriel Fauré.

The Abbey Singers will stage a ‘Come and Sing’ performance of the ever-popular Requiem by Fauré on Saturday, January 27, to mark the 100th anniversary of the composer’s death in 1924.

The ‘Come and Sing’ event is an open invitation to singers from near and far to come and join them in the performance and giving the choir the opportunity to perform large-scale choral works.

Gerard Kelly, chairman of the Abbey Singers, said: “It’s exciting to see that there is so much enthusiasm for choral singing in the Carlisle area.

“There are several excellent choirs in the area but it’s good that people from all of those choirs and from none can come together to tackle works that demand larger numbers.

“It’s an encouraging sign for the future.”

In addition to members of the Abbey Singers, over 70 other singers have already booked their place, meaning approximately 100 people will be taking part in the performance.

Further bookings continue to arrive daily.

There is a small charge of £5 per singer, and audience admission is free, though donations are welcome.

Singers wishing to book a place can do so via Eventbrite or by writing to abbeysingers@gmail.com and stating their voice part and whether they have their own copy of the Requiem to use.

The choir’s Musical Director is Jonathan Millican, who in recent months has skilfully and enthusiastically led the choir in performing Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle, Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man, Will Todd’s Mass in Blue and other famous choral works.

Under Jonathan’s expert direction, the choir will be accompanied by organist David T Shingler.

Following registration from 1pm, a rehearsal in two 90-minute sessions (with a break) will begin at 1.30pm, and (following a further break) the performance will start at 5.30pm.

Refreshments will be provided.

Taking place at St James’ Church, Denton Holme, Carlisle, CA2 5PD all are welcome to attend the free event with the performance starting at 5:30pm (17:30).