KELLY Choral Society, under the baton of their musical director Andrew Wilson, will be presenting their Christmas Concert this Saturday, December 5, which this year consists of one work, Haydn's popular oratorio, 'The Seasons'.

This was Haydn's last major work and, despite the huge success of its first performance in Vienna in 1801, the composer spent the eight years of life remaining to him quietly, claiming that 'The Seasons' had given him 'the final stroke'.

Indeed the scope of the oratorio is breathtaking, ranging from monumental choral fugues and sparkling ensembles to riotous revelry at autumn's harvest and a charming fireside scene in winter.

The libretto is loosely based on the poem 'The Seasons' by James Thomson and follows the fortunes of three country dwellers: Jane (Rosemary Turner, soprano), Lucas (Leslie Baker, tenor) and Simon (Ian Hardy, bass), through the cycle of one complete year.

The orchestra will be led by Lindsay Braga and Mary Mazur-Park will be at the organ.

Admission is by programme, available on the door pricer £8.