THE English Symphony Orch-estra (ESO) Choir is to sound the final notes of its 13-year existence at a special send-off concert on Monday (May 20).

Formed in 1989 to work alongside the Malvern-based ESO, the decision was taken two years ago to disband, since when the choir has not performed with its "parent" orchestra.

William Boughton, ESO artistic director, said the decision had been made when the then director Adrian Partington, who is returning to conduct Monday's concert, left.

"It would have been extremely difficult to replace him," he said, adding that time, money and administrative difficulties were also factors.

He also said the outfit had never realised its full potential, describing it as "a dream unfulfilled". "These things all take a long time to build," he explained.

"It's not something you can just put together."

Monday night will be the first time the choir has performed with the ESO for two years, though since then some members have worked with the BBC National Orchestra and the Chorus of Wales under the ESO banner.

Most will now join either BBC ensembles or the City of Birming-ham Symphony Chorus.

"It's very sad," said Michael Foster, who is the administrator for the choir. "It has caused a lot of sorrow, both for musicians and locals."

Mozart's Ave Verum, Faur's Cantique du Jean Racine, Handel's Coronation Anthems and Parry's I Was Glad will all be performed on Monday.

German choir Schwabinger Kantorei Munchen, with which the Malvern-based organisation has conducted exchanges since 1998, will be appearing as part of a return tour of Worcestershire.

The event will take place at 7.30pm in St Martin's Parish Church on London Road, Worcester.

Tickets, which are priced £6, are available on 01905 621215 or on the door.