MUSIC lovers will be able to enjoy a fresh performance of one of the greatest works in Western music, in the glorious setting of Durham Cathedral.

J.S.Bach’s masterpiece, his Mass in B Minor, will be sung by the Durham Singers, accompanied by their professional period instrument orchestra, the Durham Singers Ensemble at 7.30pm on Saturday October 22 .

The young soprano soloist Rowan Pierce, from Saltburn, Teesside, who many will remember from the Durham Singers’ Messiah last year, will return to the region from her studies at the Royal Academy to sing in this concert.

Her Figaro co-star Nick Morton, recently a member of Durham Cathedral choir, will sing one of the bass solos and the other solo parts will be sung by members of the choir, showcasing the considerable talent among its singers.

Musical director Dr Julian Wright said: "The Mass in B Minor is a piece which shows Bach developing the art of choir and orchestra writing to a height of virtuosity and subtlety that was exceptional.

"And the lightness of the period instruments against the voices of a rmedium-sized choir will really allow all the beauties of the score to shine out.".

The artistic and organizational developments made by the choir over recent years, combined with a new project to encourage schoolchildren to come to concerts free of charge, have resulted in a £2,000 grant from the Arts Council lottery fund. They have also been supported by the W A Handley Charity Trust. Durham Singers chairman Sue Shaw said: ""This generous financial support enables us to put on performances of a professional standard, whilst encouraging young people to experience this wonderful music at first hand, and we would welcome any inquiries from schools interested in taking part".

Tickets are from £10 to £18 with discounts for concessions, and are available from Durham Gala Theatre Box Office on 0191-332 4041 or www.galadurham.co.uk online at www.wegottickets.com or by contacting Durham Singers on 0779 0148062 or by emailing info@durham-singers.org.