Live music in Moray: Hallelujah – it's your chance to sing the Messiah at Pluscarden Abbey
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Enthusiastic singers and musicians are being asked to take part in a 'scratch' performance of Handel's Messiah at Pluscarden Abbey.
The monastery is aiming to start building a retreat for women this summer within its grounds.
And to help with funding its supporters are organising a performance of arguably the most famous piece of religious music in history.
Added to that, it's going to take place inside the building with the best acoustics in Moray.
David Broadfoot MBE, from the Pluscarden Abbey Appeal, said: "Twenty eight years ago, on May 21, 1994 a hugely successful 'Messiah for All' took place in aid of a new male retreat.
"This will be repeated on exactly the same day this year in aid of the new female retreat.
"In simple terms you have to learn the music at home, then turn up on the day where there will be two rehearsals followed by a full blown concert with an audience.
"We reckon there must be lots of people itching to sing with others after two years of being denied the chance."
The rehearsals and concert will be led by the highly talented and patient Phoebe Csenki who's on the music staff at Gordonstoun.
Students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow will perform the solo sections.
However the chorus will comprise of anyone who wants to take part.
Arrangements will be made for those who can't read music.
Anyone wishing to join in with this fun project, either as a singer or as part of the orchestra, should get in touch with David at david@pluscardenabbey.org
In addition, the concert's organisers are also looking for one or two sponsors to help with things such as producing the programmes.
If you know of anyone willing to help, get in contact at the same email address.
There is already a female retreat at the abbey, but it's sited outside the grounds.
Like its predecessor, the new building will be for people of any, or no religion, who are looking for some peace and quiet to help them re-evaluate their lives.
