Celebrated East Cork Choral Society conductor Colin Nicholls to hang up his baton

After 42 years at the helm of the East Cork Choral Society, conductor Colin Nicholls is preparing to take his final bow.

Mr Nicholls, who assumed leadership of the choir in 1984, made his debut with a warmly received performance of Haydn’s The Creation.

Over the ensuing years, the society has presented a rich repertoire of oratorio, spanning composers from Purcell to Britten and encompassing the major choral works of Bach, Handel, Haydn, and Brahms.

The choir’s high standards have been underpinned by the loyalty of its members, while generations of young soloists and instrumentalists have benefited from opportunities to perform.

Numerous charitable causes have also gained from the group’s fundraising.

Mr Nicholls has now decided to step down, with his farewell concert scheduled for Saturday, March 21, at 8pm in Cork City Hall.

In a fitting tribute to his long association with the work, he has chosen once again to conduct The Creation. He will be joined by soprano Mary Hegarty, tenor Breiffni Horgan, and bass Gheorghe Palcu, with accompaniment by the East Cork Orchestra under the leadership of Eithne Willis.

Proceeds from the concert will support the Irish Cancer Society. Tickets are available from Pro Musica, Eventbrite, society members, and at the door.