A CHOIR is celebrating after performing a concert with a full orchestra for the first time in three years.

Tatton Singers were delighted to receive such a warm welcome at St John’s Church in Knutsford.

Chairman Ian Philips said: “It was wonderful to be singing with a full orchestra and the church organ again after such a long time.

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“We had a large audience that made the effort we put into rehearsing since the start of September all worthwhile.

“Inevitably there were some mistakes and uncertainties. But that is the joy of live performance.

“When we found the church organ wasn’t working 30 minutes before the concert, I had a small panic.

“But we found a loose wire connection so were able to temporarily fix it for the evening. All good fun.”

The 75-strong choir attracted an audience of more than 220 people.

The programme included several pieces with the main item being Beethoven’s Mass in C, performed with a full 30-piece orchestra.

Knutsford Guardian: Tatton Singers delighted to perform to such a large audience at St John's ChurchTatton Singers delighted to perform to such a large audience at St John's Church (Image: Tatton Singers)

Managing director John Powell said: “The choir had prepared very thoroughly for this programme.

“But, in the actual concert, inspired by the addition of talented players and an engaging quartet of young soloists, they really raised their game.

“It was a privilege to be at the helm of such an exciting occasion.

“As one audience member put it ‘definitely professional standards from amateur singers’.”

The choir is now rehearsing for a Christmas concert.

Ian said: “We are extremely pleased that Bexton School Choir will be joining us.

“I hear they are bringing 48 singers so we expect the event to be a very special concert.”

The Christmas concert will be held on Saturday, December 17.

Tickets priced £13, including a glass of wine and a mince pie, will be available on the door.