TAKE part in a singing workshop in Dorchester.

The Briantspuddle Singers and Wareham Choral Society will be taking part in an afternoon of singing at United Church, Dorchester, on Saturday, February 8 between 2pm and 6.30pm.

The afternoon singing workshop on Stainer’s Crucifixion will be led by Simon Lole and will include an informal performance at the end.

Simon has spent a lifetime in music, starting as a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. He received his musical training at the Guildhall School of Music and King’s College, London University.

He spent many years as a professional church musician, culminating in positions as Director of Music at Sheffield Cathedral and then Salisbury Cathedral, and running the Chapel Choir and teaching at Jesus College, Cambridge. Since 2005, he has worked as a freelance musician - musical director, composer, arranger, conductor and organist, as well as record producer and workshop leader.

As a choral director, Simon also works regularly for the BBC. He is one of the main Musical Directors for BBC Radio 4’s The Daily Service, was vocal coach and accompanist for BBC Radio 2’s Young Chorister of the Year competition for many years, and is also a regular conductor and accompanist on BBC TV’s Songs of Praise.

The Crucifixion is an oratorio composed by John Stainer in 1887 to be sung by choirs in parish churches with organ accompaniment in the run up to Easter. It remains very popular today and there are many performances in churches around the country each year.

RSCM Wessex has helped to organise the event.

Places for the afternoon can be booked in advance by email BPS@briantspuddlesingers.uk or call 01258 881438. Places cost £10 as advance bookings or £12.50 on the door. It costs £5 for young people.