John Rutter’s Magnificat will be the centrepiece of Lyme Bay Chorale’s Christmas concert.

The performance of music by living composers will take place on Sunday, December 10 at 4pm in Lyme Regis Parish Church.

It follows the choir’s rendition of another of the composer’s major works, the Requiem, on Remembrance Sunday. Rutter’s music is loved by singers and audiences alike for its emotive, soaring melodies and rich harmonies, and the Magnificat is a popular choice during the run-up to Christmas. The work has seven short movements and centres around the Annunciation, when Mary learnt that she would be the mother of Jesus.

The programme will also include Christus Natus Est, a canticle for Christmas by Cecilia McDowall, and carols by three local composers: Nicholas Brown, Peter Irving, and Peter Nardone. There will also be two traditional carols for the audience to sing.

Musical Director Alex Davies will conduct, and Andrew Millington will accompany the choir on piano and organ. Solo passages throughout the programme will be sung by members of the choir.

Alex said: “I’m thrilled to be presenting a programme of music by composers who are all still very much immersed in the world of music.

“Three of them live locally, which reflects the abundance of musical talent and commitment in our community, while John Rutter and Cecilia McDowall are giants among British living composers. It’s going to be a wonderful concert and perfect for the season.”

Tickets are £13 in advance from Fortnam, Smith & Banwell in Lyme Regis, or choir members, and £15 on the door. Admission is free for young people aged 18 and under. Mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies will be served in the interval.

This will be Lyme Bay Chorale’s fifth concert this year and follows a joint performance with Woodroffe staff and pupils in February, a St George’s Day concert in April, and fundraisers for the RNLI in July and the Royal British Legion in November.

The choir comprises 32 singers and usually gives two concerts of classical and modern choral music each year - spring and Advent - in St Michael’s Church, plus at least one fundraising concert.