CHORISTERS who 'adopted' a composer through a national scheme are to perform a world premiere at Christchurch Priory this summer.

Members of La Nova Singers collaborated with award-winning melodist Ed Scolding after their selection for the UK-wide Adopt a Composer initiative.

In July, the Dorset-based group will perform a new song cycle by Mr Scolding, with audiences hearing the first public performance of Land Cycle ahead of its planned broadcast on BCC Radio 3 next year.

The concert will also feature well-known classical music such as Purcell’s Come Ye Sons of Art and Mendelssohn’s fairy songs from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, accompanied by a chamber orchestra.

The Adopt a Composer scheme, run by Making Music in partnership with Sound and Music and in association with BBC Radio 3, paired up amateur musical ensembles with up-and-coming composers.

The composers were then challenged to write a new piece of music tailored specifically to their partnered group.

La Nova Singers were selected to take part after a competitive application process

Mr Scolding said his new piece is based on the changing seasons.

“It uses texts about the end of winter, the bursting up of spring, and the haze of summer, so should fit thematically into the summer concert," he said.

“I'm really enjoying working with La Nova Singers - they're very inspiring in their ambition and achievement.

"They make a gorgeous sound and there’s a sense of confidence in their technique and the quality of what they produce.”

La Nova Singers, an all-female choir, was founded in 2004 by Michelle Nova.

Singer Holly Stroud said: “We really wanted the chance to sing something which has been written specifically for women’s voices, and plays to our strengths.

"Ed was also keen to visit Christchurch Priory as part of the writing process and has created music that will sound beautiful in that space.

"We’re all very excited about performing it."

The concert takes place on Saturday, July 16 at 7.30pm.

For more information, or to buy tickets, call 01202 499 199 or visit regentcentre.co.uk