New Hall School in Chelmsford welcomed a captivated audience to its sold-out annual Gala Concert at Chelmsford Cathedral on Saturday 14 March 2026. The School’s Senior Choir harmonised with the newly formed community choir, Beaulieu Park Singers, to perform Handel’s Messiah, accompanied by a professional orchestra led by violinist, and the School’s Visiting Music Teacher, Mr Dominic Moore.
Conducted by the School’s Director of Music, Mr Jonathan Turner, the collaboration between the two choirs performing one of the world’s best-known choral works highlighted the School’s commitment not only to musical excellence, but also to engaging with the wider community through shared musical experiences.
The concert featured a distinguished line-up of professional soloists, including Stephanie Hershaw (soprano), Feargal Mostyn-Williams (countertenor), Andrew Henley (tenor), Edmund Danon (baritone), alongside two talented New Hall student soloists. Hannah E (Year 9, alumna of St Mary’s Hare Park) voiced the Angel Gabriel in a recitative sequence where the angels appeared to the shepherds, before the chorus proclaimed ‘Glory to God’. Rory M (Year 7, alumnus of Loyola Preparatory School) performed the treble solo in ‘How beautiful are the feet’. For the young choristers, the opportunity to share the stage with professional singers offered an invaluable and inspiring experience.
Speaking after the performance, Mr Turner said the evening demonstrated the unique ability of choral music to bring people together: “The Gala Concert is always a highlight of the year, and it was a privilege to perform Messiah with two remarkable choirs in Chelmsford Cathedral. Handel’s remarkable oratorio, combined with an outstanding professional orchestra and an exceptional line-up of soloists, created an unforgettable evening for performers and audience alike.”
Founded in 1642, New Hall School has a long-standing tradition of musical excellence rooted in its historic Chapel and liturgical life. New Hall recently became an Associate Member of the Choir Schools’ Association and an accredited institution of the Royal College of Organists, becoming the first Catholic independent school in the United Kingdom to receive this prestigious status.
Events such as the Gala Concert continue that tradition, offering students the opportunity to perform renowned works of the choral repertoire while strengthening connections with the wider community. The Beaulieu Park Singers meet every Tuesday in the School’s historic Chapel, creating a vibrant and inclusive musical community. Local residents can join the choir by contacting j.turner@newhallschool.co.uk or filling out this form.
