Southampton Philharmonic Choir is noted for performing both from the established classical repertoire and contemporary works, including a number of works it has commissioned or co-commissioned. Our latest project is to be a work by British composer, Janet Wheeler, for performance in late 2016. Representatives from the choir, including the musical director, David Gibson, are already working with Janet on the brief for a 20-minute piece for choir and orchestra.

We're very fortunate in having received a bequest from the estate of Joan Wood, who was a member of the choir for many years, and her bequest will cover the cost of the commission itself. We estimate that the cost of performance will be approximately £10,000, and plans are afoot to raise this sum through a number of initiatives, including a prize draw (first prize, an original watercolour painting of Winchester Cathedral by Mike Greaves), sponsorship from music-loving individuals and business patrons, and applications for arts awards and grants. It's a very significant sum, but we have two years in which to achieve our goal. If you would like to be involved in any way, please contact Deborah Mitchell, the choir's Secretary, or Stephen Prince, Chairman – they will be delighted to hear from you!