THE DURHAM Choral Society and Orchestra are busy with final rehearsals for a performance of Handel’s Messiah in Durham Cathedral.

Messiah is one of, if not the, best known and most recognised oratorios ever written. George Frederic Handel wrote the music in 24 days in 1741, shortly after receiving the libretto from Charles Jennons.

It was first performed in Dublin and later was instrumental in raising funds for the then new Foundling Hospital in London.

In fact, the performance at the Foundling Hospital could be described as being the first benefit concert.

The society will be working with four soloists from Messiah from Memory - who will be living up to their names and singing the whole work from memory.

The concert will be held at 7.30pm on Durham Cathedral on Saturday, January 31.

Tickets £18 and £10 (concessions £2 less and children half price) from the the Gala Theatre Box Office, online from www.wegottickets.com or on the door, which opens at 7pm.