Chester Cathedral is set to be the stage for Chester Music Society (CMS) to mark their 75th anniversary, with a performance of a Handel masterpiece.

Final preparations are underway as the prestigious group marks this significant milestone with a performance of "Messiah" on Saturday 14 May at 7.30pm. The concert is the grand finale to a season of events marking the Society's 75th Anniversary.

Last performed by Chester Music Society in 2016, the piece will be performed with professional soloists and orchestra in the historic surroundings of the cathedral. The concert will feature Soprano Milly Forrest, Mezzo Soprano Elizabeth Paul, Tenor Toby Ward and Bass James Cleverton together with the Chester Music Society Choir and Liverpool Sinfonia under the musical direction of Graham Jordan Ellis.

Performed annually throughout the UK since its first performance in 1742, Handel's Messiah tells the story from the prophecy to the birth, death and resurrection of Christ in a series of recitatives, solo arias and choruses.

The performance will be the first CMS has undertaken since Covid restrictions came into force two years ago.

John Ferrari, Chair of Chester Music Society Choir said: "After having missed two full years of performances due to Covid, CMS Choir is delighted to be back in business once again.

"Audience numbers are rebuilding again and we are sure Cheshire music lovers will be as glad as we are to be able to hear and enjoy this glorious work once again."

Tickets for the concert are available via www.chestermusicsociety.org.uk alternatively, contact the box office on 01244 500959.