The debut performance of Grayshott's new Chamber choir "Excelsis" on Saturday 16th February at St Luke's Church Grayshott is already attracting considerable attention. The choir, formed only in October last year after in-depth auditions among local trained singers, will perform Vivaldi's "Gloria" and works by Mozart and Faure.

Tickets went on sale in late December and over three quarters have already been sold. Grayshott Concerts, Artistic Director, Vivien Harrison told Grayshott.Com: "This is a very special event for us, having our new choir perform in Grayshott so soon after its inception and after such intense rehearsal."

'Excelsis' Director of Music, Robert Lewis, is delighted with progress. "None of our singers have sung together before, so its been quite a challenge to stage such a major event in such a short time. But its all coming together extremely well and sounding great. We're all looking forward to the Concert immensely."

The performance will also feature two guest soloists, for the Gloria, who will also perform other well-known works, solo and in duet. Soprano, Judith Howarth, will take a break from her role as Madame Butterfly in English National Opera at London's Coliseum to visit Grayshott. Judith has an international reputation and is much in demand around the world for her opera and oratorio performances. She will be joined by Yvonne Fontane, mezzo-soprano, whose reputation as 'Carmen' is said to be "second to none".

Grayshott Concerts, Director of Marketing, Peter Harrison, is confident of an outstanding event. "It's not every day that we form a new choir - but Excelsis sounds superb. And to have not just one guest soloist, but two of such stature, performing in our midst, is a huge privilege for Grayshott."

The concert has become a reality through the generosity of the Main Sponsor, Applegarth Farm Shop, who have recently extended their support for the concert series for another year.

Tickets at £17.50 & £15 and more information, are available from Grayshott Concerts (in association with Buy In Grayshott Campaign) on 01428 606666 or at www.grayshottconcerts.co.uk . Tickets for pre-concert Suppers at £15 are also available.