A CHOIR is inviting new people to join its ranks as it begins its new season of rehearsals and concerts.

Stokesley Choral Society performs a wide range of music from light to classical and stages a number of performances throughout the year.

It is now preparing to begin rehearsals for its 2018-19 season and as well as welcoming back past and present members, is inviting new people to join.

In November they will be performing a concert, Tuneful Twosomes, which will include music from Gilbert and Sullivan, Rodgers and Hammerstein and musicals including Wicked and Les Misérables.

Liz Greenhalgh, from the choir, said their family-friendly Christmas concerts were also popular and included well-known Christmas carols with lesser-known seasonal music.

She said another highlight for the choir will be a collaborative performance in Stockton Parish Church, where they will be accompanied by an orchestra.

“April next year presents a very exciting opportunity to collaborate with local choirs Angrove Singers and Vox, in a performance of Brahms’ Requiem, in Stockton Parish Church, accompanied by a large orchestra. We also plan to sing Handel’s Zadok the Priest and Vivaldi’s Gloria,” she said.

The choir’s conductor is Jeremy Harbottle, who is also the lead cellist in Cleveland Philharmonic Orchestra and Cleveland Chamber Orchestra. He will be joined in September by accompanist Lada Khazanovych who studies at the Tchaikovsky National Academy of Music in Kiev.

Rehearsals take place on Monday evenings, from Monday, September 3, at 7.30pm in St Joseph RC Church Hall on Tanton Road in Stokesley.

Whilst the ability to read music is useful, it is not essential. The choir does not hold auditions, but people can go and try a session before joining.

For more information contact Liz Greenhalgh on 01642-722192, or visit; stokesleychoral. co.uk