The Newcastle University Choir has been a major musical force in Newcastle for the last 40 years. Founded in 1977 by the late Ulric Berstein, the choir has an enviable reputation for mounting performances of major works in the choral canon. The Choir has presented the Matthew and John Passions of J S Bach, the Requiems of Mozart, Faure, Durufle, and Goodall, large-scale masses by Haydn, Beethoven, and Mozart, and major choral works such as Britten’s War Requiem and Orff’s Carmina Burana.
Involving over 100 choristers, the Choir is un-auditioned and consists of members of the community as well as university staff and students. It seeks to give people an opportunity to make music together and to enjoy working towards a common goal. In recent years the Choir has presented the St Matthew Passion of J S Bach, Haydn’s Creation, Handel’s Messiah, and concerts of Jazz, Gospel and a cappella works in venues such as the University of Newcastle Great Hall, The Conservatorium’s Harold Lobb Hall and Christ Church Cathedral. The choir enjoys working with other local musical groups and has collaborated with the Newcastle Cathedral Choir, the Waratah Girls Choir, Echology and the Christ Church Camerata. The choir is currently directed by Dr. Christopher Allan.
Members
To sing in the choir everyone has to be a member. This also ensures that everyone is covered by insurance.
Rehearsals
Rehearsals are generally on a Monday evening from 7–9.30pm in the University’s Great Hall or the Science Theatre STHG01, unless advised otherwise due to unavailability. (See MAP here).
Potential members are welcome to contact us and arrange to attend and listen.
Cacophony – Our Newsletter
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