Chester Bach Singers are set to stage a singing workshop delving into Gioachino Rossini's famous work, 'Petite Messe Solennelle', on Saturday 25 January at 12.30pm.

Led by the Choir's musical director and conductor, Martin Bussey, in collaboration with pianist, Catherine Barnett, the event has been a popular fixture in the Choir's calendar for many years.

The workshop, which will take place at St Mary's Creative Space in Chester, will take an in-depth look at the work.

It will conclude with the opportunity to take part in an informal public performance, alongside members of Chester Bach Singers and four experienced soloists.

Light refreshments and copies of the score of 'Petite Messe Solennelle' will be provided.

Written in 1863, 'Petite Messe Solennelle' was described by Rossini as 'the last of my sins of old age'.

Chair of Chester Bach Singers, Helen Crich, said: "Having ended his triumphant operatic career thirty years previously, at the time of writing 'Petite Messe Solennelle' Rossini was living in Paris enjoying a relaxed lifestyle, entertaining friends while also writing short salon pieces not intended for publication.

"The music of the longer 'Messe Solennelle' is often exuberant, operatic and larger than life.

"Yet, it contains some tender moments and all of it is intensely singable.

"The chorus movements at the heart of the work are full of memorable musical phrases and present an operatic response to the religious text.

"This particular piece hasn't appeared in a Chester Bach Singers concert or workshop before.

"So, if you have always wanted to sing one of Rossini's most celebrated works, this is your chance to join with us and experienced soloists to sing through a classic of the repertoire at our annual workshop, ending with an informal performance." 

Full details of the Rossini workshop can be found here, where places can be booked online.