Choirs shine in Chesterfield's first Summer Solstice Singing Festival

The longest day of the year was celebrated in the eight-hour event in which more than a dozen groups took part, each performing a set of songs before all the participants sang together in a grand finale.

Chesterfield Philharmonic Choir, Rose Choir, Chesterfield Rock Choir, Dronfield & Barlow Singers, Chesterfield Operatic Society, Inspirations Theatre Company, Chesterfield College, Parkside School and Chesterfield Parish Church Choir were among the representatives.

The event, which was the first of its kind in Chesterfield, was organised by the parish church’s choirmaster and organist Peter Shepherd and assistant organist Christopher Blake to celebrate community and promote the physical and mental health benefits of singing.

Stephen Pointer posted on Facebook: “Thanks so much for organising the singing festival. As newcomers to the town it was great to listen to the musical talents of the many choirs taking part. As we hope to join a choir after the summer it was great to listen to such a range of established choirs in Chesterfield.”