Devizes Choristers win Wiltshire Choir of the Year

The choir, who came runners-up in the same competition last year, went one better this time courtesy of a fine performance of John Barnard’s carol 'So gentle the donkey', followed by a well-balanced rendition of Felix Mendelssohn’s 2-part anthem 'I waited for the Lord'.

The award is the latest in a long line of notable achievements for the choir over the past 18 months. Having represented the Diocese on a 5-day tour to Latvia in the Summer of 2018, this year they have gone on to sing at St Paul’s Cathedral and Bath Abbey, and recently gave a live broadcast of Sunday Worship on BBC Radio 4 with Bishop Nicholas. In addition, 20 of the choir’s members have gained choral awards certified by the Diocese and the RSCM during this time.

Director of Music Chris Totney said:

"The children are delighted that their hard work has paid off. Whilst they are used to singing music in the choir stalls with the adults every week, having to stand in concert formation and sing on their own from memory was a completely different experience for them, and another valuable milestone."

The coming weeks will see the choir go carol singing in the local community on several occasions, as well as taking part in 2 concerts and leading 5 Christmas services, ahead of their latest away fixture to sing 2 services at Bristol Cathedral on Sunday 5th January.

Keep up to date with their adventures by following @SJBDevizesChoir on Twitter!