A CHOIR from Birmingham is expecting a warm reception when it performs a celebration of British music at Malvern Priory on Saturday, June 25.

Birmingham Festival Choral Society is returning to Malvern after three years, to sing traditional and contemporary masterpieces.

"We receive such a warm welcome from the Priory every time we perform there and from the concert-goers," said society spokesman Helen Rouse. "Last time, we completely sold out of programmes and are hoping for a repeat performance."

The varied concert programme includes Elgar's Give Unto the Lord, Vaughan Willliams' O Clap your Hands and Finzi's Welcome Sweet and Sacred Feast.

Contemporary Birmingham composer Andrew Downes will be present to hear a performance of his resounding anthem O Praise the Lord, written in the early 70s.

Works by Joubert, Wood and Maxwell Davies are also featured. The concert begins at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £10 (concs £8) from Malvern Tourist Information Centre on 01684 892289.

n Worcester's Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Neil Aston, performs at Pershore Abbey tomorrow (Saturday) at 2.30pm. The programme includes Rimsky's Schezerazade and Bruch's Kol Nidrei. Catherine Oldham performs as cello soloist. Tickets are £8 (concs £7, students £5, children free) on the door.