We did not know when we chose to sing Mendelsohn's Elijah that, according to Eastern European folklore Elijah, the thunderer could be blamed for bad weather! Perhaps he will be appeased by our rendering of his fascinating story at our concert.

Elijah is the dramatic story of the ninth century BC prophet who warned King Ahab that his actions and those of his wife Queen Jezebel would bring disaster on the people of God. He and his queen had encouraged the worship of Baal and abandoned the worship of Jehovah. Drought, rebellion, vengeance and dejection follow but in the best tradition of Good prevailing over Evil; peace, concord, consolation and praise bring the story to a conclusion.
I heard this work for the first time when I was about seven years old and the excitement and spine chilling effect of the music of the dramatic choruses is still with me. The people of Israel calling to Baal to send down Fire, the slaying of the priests, the suspense of waiting for the Lord to send rain, the relief when indeed it does rain, the Prophet Elijah being taken to heaven in a whirlwind all combine to make a nail biting story.

This work will be familiar to many but whether or not you have heard it before, you will be in for a treat. So, come to hear Mendelsohn's Elijah sung by Thornbury Choral Society under the skilful conducting of Steven Kings, orchestra led by Bob Chadwick.

Soloists; - Sian Winstanley (soprano)
Martha McLorinan (alto)
Wilhelm Theunissen (tenor)
Nicholas Perfect (bass)
They will be joined by George McCarthy, the head Chorister of Bristol Cathedral.

Tickets £10 (£9 prepaid) £1 under 16. Available from Thornbury Town Hall, choir members or on the door.