FOLLOWING a successful West Side Story concert, the Ross Penyard Singers are now starting their rehearsals for their next performance, The Armed Man.

The singers’ recent concert at St Mary’s Church was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience and members alike.

And now Sammy Martin, the singers’ musical director said: “We are planning to sing in November the much-celebrated Armed Man: Mass for Peace choral suite by Karl Jenkins.

“This has been lovingly crafted to include the voices of the world. It is a proclamation and prayer for peace.

“We will then add Jenkins's most beautiful ‘Adiemus’ and some of Rutter's Gaelic ‘Blessing for Peace’ to unite this most special event.

“We are always keen to include some of the esteemed but lesser known female composers such as Elaine Hagenberg’s ‘I Will Be a Child of Peace’ will also be featured.

“If you have ever considered joining a mixed choir then this is the perfect time to come along for the next few weeks and try it out.

“Most of the singers do not read music, but help is at hand to support and develop your singing voice.”

The rehearsals take place at St Mary’s Church Hall every Wednesday between 7pm and 9pm.

Ross Penyard Singers is an enthusiastic amateur choir based in Ross-on-Wye and its mixed-voice ensemble is dedicated to bringing people together through the power of song.

The singers take pride in supporting local charities and community projects through its performances while fostering a love for music among our members.

Other highlights over the past 12 months include A Season to Sing that featured a new piece of music by Joanna Forbes L’Estrange, a choral re-imagining of ‘The Four Seasons’ by Vivaldi.

For its 25th Anniversary concert the singers were joined by the newly formed Ross Academy Choir to perform You Raise Me Up.