A PIECE of music composed in Cirencester and last performed in the town around 40 years ago is to be performed again this Christmas and any of the original singers are invited to take part.

Good Tidings of Great Joy, Cantata for Christmas, was composed by celebrated local composer Rosemary Hammond and last performed in Cirencester Parish Church by Tower Singers and Grammarians in the 1980s.

This December, the piece will be performed by local choir Village Singers in the parish church and former Tower Singers and Grammarians are being warmly invited to take part in the performance.

Following their recent smash tour to Paris with Faure’s Requiem, the Village Singers will perform the piece as part of a special Christmas concert on December 16.

Musical director Rachel McCorry said performing Cantata for Christmas was an enormous privilege.

“Rosemary was a local celebrity in her time, especially amongst musicians and former Grammarians. She was a very talented composer and we are thrilled to have been given permission by her estate to reprise Good Tidings of Great Joy, A Cantata for Christmas”, she said.

“Performing in the parish church is also very fitting as Rosemary last performed this piece here around 40 years ago.

“We would be delighted to welcome former Tower Singers and Grammarians to join us for the performance and help us bring the piece back to life.”

The concert promises to be very special evening of Christmas music, celebration and memories for many local people.

Any former Tower Singers or Grammarians who would like more information about the Christmas Cantata concert on Saturday, December 16 should email Louisa: contact@villagesingers.co.uk or call 07870 279336.