The Manchester Carols by Knaresborough Choral Society

A well known local community choir launches its year of celebration on November 29th. Knaresborough Choral Society, a choir of all ages & abilities, turns 40 and will mark it with their most ambitious concerts yet.
The celebrations begin with a performance of the Manchester Carols – a collection of 12 new Carols re-telling the Christmas story for the 21st Century. The Carols were written in 2007 between composer Sasha Johnson Manning and the then Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy. They are for everyone, believers or not and retell the Christmas story in a modern way. The Times commented “ Once heard, the Manchester tunes are hard to shake off. They are definitely carols to sing”.
The choir’s inspirational conductor, Daniel Rodriguez, says “ We chose this music because it’s the complete Christmas story, retold for the 21st Century with modern music. Everyone can enjoy this music.” The performance will take place in King James’ School at 7.30pm on November 29th. Tickets cost £15, free to under 18 year olds, and are available from Knaresborough bookshop, online (click here), any choir member or at the door.
Moving into 2026, the anniversary year, the choir will present the magnificent Haydn’s Creation in the glorious surroundings of Ripon Cathedral on May 26th. This will be a collaboration with St Asaph’s Choral Society from North Wales and Harrogate Philharmonic Orchestra. Daniel Rodriguez says “ It will be such a privilege to perform this joyful music with our friends from St Asaph’s choir in such a magnificent building.” Later in the year the choir, on November 28th, will present the first performance in Knaresborough of the very moving, modern Mass for Peace by the living composer, Karl Jenkins.
In between these 2 performances on July 4th the choir will hold a “pay as you feel” Concert with Cake when the choir will enjoy a journey through some of their favourite music.
Knaresborough Choral Society rehearses in the Centre on Gracious Street, Knaresborough each Thursday evening. In addition to the three concerts each year, it also perform at numerous local and community events throughout the year.
This is definitely an evening for music lovers! And, if you enjoy the evening, why not give singing with the choir a try? We meet each Thursday evening in the Centre on Gracious St, Knaresborough starting at 7.30 for an evening of fun & learning. Find out more here.