I do love the Three Choirs Festival. It is certainly so much more than "a few songs in the back of a church" as I've heard the locals describe it! You have no idea what inspiration I take home from the Festival,
musically, spiritually and physically. It buoys me up for a whole year of work back home in Toronto.
The high level of the concert performances of great choral literature is my number one reason for coming, but as a church musician I am incredibly moved by the beautful services of Evensong offered every day
with such musicality, reverence and discipline in the awe-inspiring architecture of a medieval English cathedral. Realizing that this tradition has survived 800 years of political and economic ups and downs
gives me confidence that there is hope for the world! I am always impressed that the Festival actively fosters participation from the next generation, with performances from youthful ensembles like the Welsh
National Youth Orchestra, Rodulfus Choir, the young organists' recital series, and of course, the children of the Cathedral Choirs.

My visit to the festival is always enhanced by some vigorous hiking in the Malvern Hills or the splendidly peaceful countryside, and of course sampling the local ciders and real ales makes the experience complete.
And I can't say enough about the overwhelming hospitality of local residents who have opened their homes and hearts to foreign visitors.

Three Choirs is the BEST!

Stephanie Martin
Associate Professor of Music
York University
Toronto, Canada