Get ready for another season of musical excellence as Ripon Choral Society invites you to embark on a journey through the ages. Mark your calendars for four extraordinary concerts that promise to transport you to different eras, showcasing the beauty and diversity of choral music. Whether you’re a long-time choral music enthusiast or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone in our diverse and inspiring line-up.
A Sea Symphony: “Behold the sea itself, and on its limitless, heaving breast, the ships”.
We begin our season with a piece which ushered in a new era of British 20th-century choral music. Inspired by Walt Whitman’s poetry and with the sea as the central theme, the composer explores humanity’s place in time and space. “For we are bound where mariner has not yet dared to go.”
Valiant-for-Truth is a poignant meditation, taken from Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress, whilst the Five Mystical Songs are a setting of poems by George Herbert.
Experience the majesty of Handel’s Messiah with Ripon Choral Society! Join us for an unforgettable evening of powerful choral singing and stunning solos. A musical celebration not to be missed.
Our spring concert is a setting of Wordsworth’s Ode in one continuous movement. The mood changes from pastoral lyricism through intimate reflection to an extrovert depiction of birdsong and the joy of flowers in spring.
Plus enjoy two of Poulenc’s most celebrated works: his Gloria and Organ Concerto.
June 13, 2026
Our summer concert is a feast of Baroque music.
Bach’s Magnificat, taken from the Gospel of St Luke, is a musical setting of the biblical canticle: a message of hope written as a showpiece to illustrate his talents. “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord”.
Bach Cantata 51: “Sing God’s praise in every land!” This is one of Bach’s most sustained virtuoso pieces. It conveys a profound expression of commitment to God.
Handel’s Dixit Dominus is widely celebrated for its vitality, youthful energy, and dazzling complexity. Composed in 1707 when Handel was just 22, the work showcases his early mastery of choral writing and Italian Baroque style.
All concerts are in Ripon Cathedral starting at 19:30 unless stated otherwise.
We do not send out tickets for concerts. For tickets purchased online, please either print off a copy of your confirmation email or bring your phone or mobile device to the concert to present at the entrance. Purchasing online is by Paypal, but you do NOT need to have a Paypal account – you can purchase as a guest. If you are having trouble booking online then please email tickets@riponchoralsociety.org.uk and we’ll do our best to help you.