Choral feast in aid of COPE

THE ROUSING strains of Handel's Hallelujah Chorus and the lyrical harmonies of Mozart's Missa Brevis in B flat are just some of the choral treats to be heard at the Galway Choral Association's annual Christmas Concert at St Nicholas Collegiate Church on Saturday, December 11. The concert, in support of COPE Galway, will also feature choral music from renowned English composers Elgar and Rutter under the direction of Galway Choral Association's musical director, Norman Duffy. Galway Choral Association Chairman Michael O'Hare said that the choir was delighted to assist a Galway-based organisation such COPE Galway during this year's festive season. 'Christmas is a busy time for many charities and particularly for COPE Galway, who provide much needed services to some of the most isolated members of our community such as the homeless and those affected by domestic violence. 'We hope that by our contribution we will be able to generate additional funds for COPE Galway to enable them to make a difference to the lives of our most needy citizens this Christmas.' Fintan Maher, Director of Communications with COPE Galway, said the organisation was very appreciative of the support of the Galway Choral Association. The concert features top soloists Sandra Murphy, Tracy Bruen, Matthew Harrison and John Kennedy, and Galway born organist and former Westminster Cathedral organ scholar David Grealy will provide the musical accompaniement. Tickets at €15 (€10 concessions) are available from choir members, Opus II in the Cornstore, COPE Galway, or on the door. The concert kicks off at 8 pm. More details are available on the Galway Choral Associaiton page on Facebook (www.facebook.com/GalwayChoral Association).