Elgar's The Music Makers is a dazzling work. Voices and orchestra convey the potent symbolism of a text which is steeped in the world of dreams.

Elgar's The Music Makers is a dazzling work. Voices and orchestra convey the potent symbolism of a text which is steeped in the world of dreams.

At intervals there are thematic reminders of other works by a composer renowned for his stirring melodies and rich harmonies. The gradually built climax of the opening section was reminiscent of the passionate moments in The Dream of Gerontius.

The choir and orchestra, conducted by John Roper, produced a thrilling range of dynamics and contrasts of mood.

Contralto Vera Cooke was in excellent form as she responded with great sensitivity to the taxing demands of her two solos.

The racy paced opening of John Rutter's Magnificat brought Leonard Bernstein to mind. In this absorbing work, the Latin of the Magnificat is interspersed with the setting of a beautiful and Old English poem Of A Rose and a prayer, Sancta Maria.

There are three beautiful solo sections, which were sung in an accomplished manner by BBC Choir Girl of the Year, Alicia King. The soloist, chorus and orchestra formed an exquisite partnership in Et Misericordia.

This Jubilee celebration at St Nicholas Parish Church, opened with the National Anthem and closed with Land of Hope and Glory.