On the 18th November Ilkley and Otley Choral Societies say farewell to their Musical Director for the past three years, Jennifer Sterling. She is to be succeeded in January 2024 by Alex Kyle.
This concert is notable for it’s unusual main work: Ethel Smyth’s “Mass in D”, is very rarely performed and we are sure that this is the first performance in this area. The choirs will be accompanied by a small orchestra, four soloists and conducted for the final time by Jenny Sterling.
The performance will take place in St. Margaret’s Church, Ilkley, commencing at 7pm. Tickets will be available at the door, but as a big audience is expected for this concert, it is advisable to obtain tickets in advance from our usual sources: Grove Bookshop, Ilkley, Brown’s Art Gallery, Otley (cash only) and online via Eventbrite (ilkleysmyth.eventbrite.co.uk). Tickets are also available from society members, price £18 which includes interval refreshments and programme.
Whilst studying at Leipzig, Smyth, [ born 1858 ] came across Grieg and Brahms, and the first half of the concert will comprise of short choral works by Brahms and Grieg’s “Holberg Suite” for string orchestra. Smyth was the first British female composer to be honoured with a damehood. She was also very much involved in the suffragette movement and in 1910 her “March of the Women” became the anthem for that movement. An interesting lady, and one of her main works deserves to be heard.
Please join the societies on 18th November. You will be very welcome.
