250 young singers have performed alongside world-renowned musicians in Ely Cathedral as part of a ‘life-changing programme. 

Called Gabrieli Roar, the programme is one of the country’s ‘most exciting’ youth music projects. 

Gabrieli Roar works with a range of diverse English school and youth choirs, helping young people from many backgrounds to develop a love of choral music, breaking down barriers, and fostering the next generation of classical music lovers, concert-goers and musicians. 

The young singers took to the stage on July 26. The concert also featured internationally acclaimed soloists Nicky Spence, Anna Stéphany and Andrew Foster-Williams. 

Ely Standard: The young singers took to the stage on July 26. The young singers took to the stage on July 26. (Image: Gabrieli Roar)

Students from Sawston Village College and Chesterton Community College in Cambridgeshire were some of those who took part this year. 

The performance was the culmination of a residential course entitled “Angels and Devils” which took place from July 21-26 in Chelmsford and is based around Elgar’s magnificent oratorio ‘The Dream of Gerontius’.  

Founder and artistic director of Gabrieli Roar, Paul McCreesh  said “I couldn’t wait for the opportunity to introduce our brilliant young singers to Elgar’s choral masterpiece.  

“As always, our young people work extremely hard but it’s a joy to see them develop both musically and personally.  

“We have a fantastic group of coaches who help train the singers and a great pastoral team who ensure they all have lots of fun as well.”   

Ely Standard: The performance was the culmination of a residential course entitled “Angels and Devils” which took place from July 21-26 in Chelmsford.The performance was the culmination of a residential course entitled “Angels and Devils” which took place from July 21-26 in Chelmsford. (Image: Gabrieli Roar)

Following the performance at Ely Cathedral, some of the more experienced Roar singers will also perform at the Fairfield Halls in Croydon and take part in a recording of the work, to be released in Spring 2024.  

This summer also sees Roar's first international collaboration as the Polish National Youth Choir will join the project in celebration of its 10th anniversary. 

You can find out more about Gabrieli Roar by visiting: Gabrieli Roar - Gabrieli Consort & Players