FAVOURITES chosen by some of the finest musicians in Malvern will form the centrepiece of a concert to welcome in the new year.

English Symphony Orchestra hosts The Maestro's Choice on Friday, January 6, at Malvern Theatres to raise much-needed funds to continue its work.

The programme was chosen by and centres around the ESO's principal players.

It will celebrate the talent of the musicians who regularly grace the concert platform but rarely share the limelight.

Roger Rix, treasurer for Friends of the ESO, said that at only £1 a ticket, it was a great opportunity for those who cannot normally afford to go to concerts.

"It's a very friendly repertoire of things that people will know and like," he said.

"There's something there for everybody's taste."

Friends committee chairman Prof Denis Stanworth said: "We urgently need the funds, not only to help the orchestra maintain its established concert programme in Malvern, but also other vital work with the youth orchestras and with schools."

Violin soloist Michael Bochmann will direct the evening.

There will also be solos from cellist Peter Adams and Paul Arden Taylor on the oboe.

The musical medley will include Mozart's Divertimento in F, Vivaldi's Cello Concerto No 4 and Bach's Violin and Oboe Concerto.

There will also be favourites, such as Holst's St Paul's Suite.

Additional donations can be made both before and after the concert.

Prof Stanworth said: "We ask only that the audience contribute what is comfortable for them.

"Irrespective of the size of the donation, all supporters of the ESO will receive a very warm welcome."

The concert starts at 7.30pm and the box office is on 01684 892277.