THE Sixteen choir celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2019 and the good news is, it has a date in Worcester.

In May 1979, a group of singers and instrumentalists, brought together and conducted by Harry Christophers, gave their first concerts as The Sixteen.

Now, 40 years later, the choir celebrates its ruby anniversary with a season full of concerts all over the UK and internationally, “going back to key works in its history which have provided its foundation as well as looking forward with new commissions”.

A spokesman said: “This mixture has cemented the choir as one of the world’s greatest ensembles, known for its tonal richness, expressive intensity and compelling collective artistry.”

Harry Christophers says: “Can it really be 40 years since a fledgling group of singers gave their first concerts as The Sixteen in May 1979!

“In celebration of this milestone, we’ve got a great season with exciting and adventurous projects lined up.”

Harry added: “I can’t thank everyone enough who have cheered us on over the years: our singers, orchestra, staff, supporters, and of course, our fiercely enthusiastic audiences for making The Sixteen all it is.”

The offering for Worcester Cathedral on February 15 will be Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610.

This is described as “one of the most significant collections of sacred music ever”. The spokesman said: Written with thrilling rhythms, grand choruses and beautiful solo movements; its virtuosity stretches every singer and instrumentalist’s versatility to the limit, yet the effects of his demands are exhilarating.

“The choir follows Monteverdi’s dictum recitar cantando (speak through singing) to maximum effect, and it will bring this glorious work to life in the wonderful acoustics of one the UK’s finest cathedrals.”

Soloists for the concert will be Katy Hill, Charlotte Mobbs (soprano); Jeremy Budd, Mark Dobell (tenor) and Ben Davies, Robert Davies (bass).

Further details at thesixteen.com/events/monteverdi-vespers-worcester/