TWO world-class musicians, both based in the West Country, will join Lyme Bay Chorale for their spring concert this Saturday. (21)

Andrew Millington – formerly director of music at Exeter Cathedral – will take the rostrum as guest conductor, while Peter King, organist emeritus at Bath Abbey, will play the organ.

The concert, at St Michael's Church, Lyme Regis, beginning at 7pm, comprises a selection of stunning English choral music, featuring Elgar’s From the Bavarian Highlands and Let the People Praise Thee, O God by William Mathias as well as works by Parry, Vaughan Williams and Britten.

The choir rehearses at St Michael's under the baton of musical director Alex Davies. Andrew Millington will conduct the final few practices and the performance itself.

Peter King’s appearance at the concert is something of a surprise; Alex Davies was due to play the organ accompaniment, but he injured his hand last week and won’t be able to play for a while. Peter stepped in at almost the last minute to ensure the performance can still go ahead; he will also be playing a couple of solo pieces.

“Andrew and Peter are both world-class musicians and I’m delighted that they’ve agreed to be involved with our concert,” says Alex. “Andrew has an association with St Michael’s that goes back several years, since he played in our first series of organ recitals, so this new role as a guest conductor with Lyme Bay Chorale cements that relationship. And Peter – who has a stellar reputation – has saved the day like a real musical hero! Their presence will ensure the concert is a truly special experience for local music-lovers.”

The solo singers for the evening will be soprano Chloe Stratta and bass William Armiger. Chloe grew up in Lyme and was a pupil at Colyton Grammar School, where she sung in the chamber choir, taking part in tours to Paris, Malta, Oxford and Chester. She went on to study music at the University of Manchester. Chloe will sing the soprano solo parts in ‘Festival Te Deum’ by Britten and ‘Hear My Words, Ye People’ by Parry, as well as solo songs by other English composers.

William sang for more than 40 years in the choir at Gloucester Cathedral, where he was also a senior lay clerk and chorister tutor. He studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and has performed widely as a baritone soloist in BBC broadcasts and on recordings as well as at concerts and recitals. William will sing the bass solo in the Parry anthem.

Last month Andrew Millington arrived early for rehearsal so he could meet the members of St Michael’s Primary School Choir (led by Alison Davies), who practise in the church before Lyme Bay Chorale. Andrew was very happy to share some of his knowledge with the children.

*Lyme Bay Chorale spring concert, Saturday, April 21, 7pm. Tickets are £13 available in advance from Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre, Penny Black Café (behind the post office in Lyme) or from choir members, and £15 on the door. More details about the choir and its Young Singers Bursary Scheme are available online at lymebaychorale.co.uk