‘ Tis the season!
 

Exeter Philharmonic Choir will bring Christmas cheer to audiences at Exeter Cathedral over two nights this December with carols both traditional and contemporary.

Devon harpist Elizabeth-Jane Baldry will compere the concerts on Tuesday 12 and Wednesday 13 December and is sure to charm the audience with entertaining musical anecdotes as she guides them through the Choir’s programme.
 
A solo trumpet and the impressive sound of the cathedral organ will accompany the Choir’s 100-plus voices. Audience members will be invited to join the Choir in familiar festive songs.

For those who want to make a night of it, a Supper Club will meet on Tuesday, 12 December, for a two-course, pre-concert meal at the Mercure Southgate Hotel, a short walk from Exeter Cathedral.
 
Howard Ionascu, Exeter Philharmonic Choir’s Director of Music, said: “Complementing the voices of the singers at our Christmas carol concerts, we look forward to welcoming Julian Poore on trumpet and Stephen Tanner, our Associate Director of Music, on the organ. Julian has been a member of the Chamber Orchestra of Europe since its creation in 1981, playing with many celebrated musicians, including Placido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti. This concert  promises to be a special prelude to the festive season.”
 
Christmas is traditionally a time for family gatherings. However, the Choir is mindful that many people in Devon are alone and without their families during the festive season. That’s why his year EPC is supporting Refugee Support Devon with its retiring collection at both Carol Concerts.
 
Refugee Support Devon manager Rupert Blomfield explained: “Refugee Support Devon has been supporting asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants in Devon since 2001.  Recently, the number of asylum seekers in the county, mostly family groups, has risen significantly and RSD has been at the forefront in supporting them and advocating on their behalf.

"While the debate about migration and asylum in the UK has been high on the political agenda, we at RSD focus on the practical, day-to-day challenges our clients face, securing their rights and entitlements and supporting them to integrate into their new homes here in Devon.”
 
Full booking details are on the choir’s website.