A key event for singers of all ages and abilities will take place in a Petersfield church later this month.

Make a note on the calendar as the Petersfield Musical Festival team will run a choral workshop in the town’s methodist church on Saturday, September 28.

“This workshop will be a wonderful opportunity to brush up on musical skills, or introduce newcomers to the world of choral singing,” said a spokesperson.

“It’s also a great chance to make new friends and possibly learn new repertoire.”

People who take part in the open workshop from 10.30am to 4.30pm will explore, rehearse and perform the Vaughan Williams classic Dona Nobis Pacem.

The beautiful and deeply moving track written in 1936 is a plea for peace, reflecting on previous wars and foreshadowing the conflict already on the horizon.

Festival conductor, Paul Spicer, will guide participants through the work with Mark Dancer accompanying on piano. There’s a further incentive for singers as they’ll be getting to intimately know a masterpiece which will be sung by the Festival Chorus at next year’s Festival.

“They may be tempted, after getting a taste for the music, to enjoy the chance to sing on the stage of the Festival Hall in March 2025 alongside professional soloists and a full orchestra,” added the spokesperson.

Workshop tickets are £18 to £20, with £5 entry for audience members and free participation for full-time students.