A PERFORMANCE of Stainer’s “The Crucifixion” with Strathclyde University Chamber Choir, directed by Alan Tavener, with David Hamilton at the organ, and soloists Thomas Athorne, Tenor, and Thomas Stevenson, Bass will take place in Peebles Old Parish Church on Tuesday April 12 at 7.30pm.

John Stainer’s ‘meditation on the sacred passion of the Holy Redeemer’ has been a firm favourite with choirs for over 130 years.

It tells the story of Christ’s crucifixion through a sequence of choruses, recitatives and arias in a structure similar to Bach’s ‘Passions’. It was written for liturgical use, with five hymns for congregational participation.

To be part of it, whether as a singer or in the congregation / audience, is a deeply moving human experience.

Even non church goers will feel the human agony of a man who sacrificed himself for his faith.

Strathclyde University Chamber Choir is one of Scotland’s leading amateur choirs with a unique and varied repertoire. It was founded in 1980 by the distinguished conductor and scholar, Alan Tavener who, two years later, also founded the professional choir, Capella Nova.

The choir flourished under his leadership and has commissioned new works by composers including Toby Young and Sir James MacMillan.

Canty, the all-female trio, who are part of Capella Nova, gave a beautiful Christmas concert at Music in Peebles in December 2019, their 20th anniversary year.

Singers who attended the inspiring workshop led by Alan and Rebecca Tavener in the church on April 2 will be part of the congregation hymn singing.

Tickets are on sale at the Eastgate Theatre Box Office, Peebles, 01721 725777, or online at www.eastgatearts.com Adult £15, *Discounts £7, Under 25s Free

*available to members of Biggar Music or Moffat Music Society and to adults accompanying a child under 12