News

We are thrilled to announce that the Insole Court Community Choir, accompanied by Gareth Griffiths, has won a choral section at The Cheltenham Festival for Performing Arts with their original piece, ‘Treason’. The award-winning work, composed by the choir's conductor Tim Riley, and John Lovat, tells the story of the ill-fated Chartist March on Newport in 1839. The choir clinched the silverware on Saturday 14th of May, marking the second time they've found success at the festival since 2019.

Tim Riley, The Insole Court Community Choir Conductor, commented:

"I'm absolutely over the moon with the result. We were singing against five top amateur choirs, but the adjudicator said that it was the choir's energy, clarity and complete engagement with the music that made us stand out. This is our second win at Cheltenham having clinched a cup in a 'best newcomer' category last time we took part in 2019"

"I'm currently researching a new choral piece to be premiered by the choir next year which will explore the links between Insole Court and the Cymmer Colliery and the awful tragedy that claimed the lives of more than hundred men and boys in 1856. We are lucky to have this wonderful community building and gardens which are now available to all. However, it's important that we explore in an open way the history and events that created this wonderful legacy."

The Insole Court Community Choir is a non-audition choir that rehearses at 7.30pm every Thursday at Insole Court. If you're interested in joining, please enquire via [email protected]

The choir will be back delighting audiences with their award winning performance of ‘Treason’ on 21^st July 2022 at Acapela

Footage from a previous performance of ‘Treason’ can be accessed via YouTube