Following a stunningly successful festival in Gloucester in 2007, plans for the Worcester Three Choirs Festival 2008 are progressing apace.

The programme for 2008 combines established favourites of the classical and choral tradition with works drawn from a broader musical spectrum.

Continuing its close association with the Three Choirs Festival, the Philharmonia Orchestra will once again be orchestra in residence for 2008. Celebrations of the work of Elgar, in this 150th anniversary year, continue with glorious performances of The Apostles and Pomp and Circumstance.

A Baroque spectacular, featuring works by Handel, Garth and Purcell, will be one of the highlights of the Festival’s programme at Worcester Cathedral, featuring the Philharmonia Orchestra and the Festival Chorus.

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio is performed by the Academy of Ancient Music, currently at the height of its vitality under the direction of Richard Egarr.

Worcester Three Choirs Festival presents a world première with Andrew Gant’s A British Symphony. Continuing the Three Choirs’ ethos of celebrating new music and fostering diverse musical collaborations, A British Symphony is a very modern celebration of the diversity of the United Kingdom, celebrating their unity and uniqueness.

Worcester Three Choirs Festival brings together an exciting blend of the very best ensembles and artists of our time, with a rich blending of vibrant young artists and groups. At the forefront of the next generation of inspirational classical music artists are Armonico Consort, Gothic Voices, Yossif Ivanov, Bobby Chen and Red Priest. Worcester Three Choirs Festival is delighted to be showcasing these brilliantly talented young performers within the 2008 Festival.

In addition to a range of high-profile classical and choral events, Worcester Three Choirs Festival is delighted to be bringing the company of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre to Worcester with its unique interpretation of A Winter’s Tale. This is just one of a range of exciting events that will take place on College Green at Worcester Cathedral, complimenting the main programme of events.

There are also a range of educational events, created to develop skill and interest in classical and choral music, and to encourage young people to experience genres of music of which they are less aware, in a fun environment that breaks down the boundaries to classical and choral music.

Worcester Three Choirs Festival utilises a range of venues that are architectural gems in their own right, adding an additional dimension to the superb artistic performances. Venues throughout Worcestershire include Huntingdon Hall, Hartlebury Castle, Pershore Abbey, Great Witley Church and Tewkesbury Abbey.

The 2008 Festival culminates with a spectacular concert celebrating iconic musical scores from the very cream of British and international cinema .

Whether you are a seasoned Three Choirs Festival follower or completely new to the Festival, there are a range of exciting events planned to whet your appetite for August 2008!

To see the full programme of events, go to the What’s On section of this website.