The Breath of Life

Come and Sing Matthew Coleridge's radiant new cantata, The Breath of Life

Join composer and Classic FM Hall-of-Famer Matthew Coleridge for an unforgettable day of choral singing in Christchurch Priory.


Brimming with rhythmic energy, lyrical beauty and emotional depth, The Breath of Life is an extraordinary new choral masterpiece from the pen of one of the UK's most exciting composers.


From the shimmering stillness of its opening to its elemental evocation of thunder and vivid echoes of the natural world - singing this vibrant music is an emotionally-charged and overwhelming experience.


After an uplifting and inspiring day of rehearsals, we’ll be joined by professional string ensemble and percussion to give a powerful concert performance in the exceptional setting of Christchurch Priory, on the Dorset coast.


This singing day is open to singers of all abilities, but basic music-reading skills are essential. Music will be available to borrow or buy on the day.


Rehearsal tracks are provided for you to learn the music ahead of the day.


Under 18's must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.


 Matthew Coleridge is a great force for good in the choral world  - Alexander Armstrong, Classic FM

Details and timings

Timings on the day (provisional)

  • 10:00

    singer registration

  • 10:30 - 13:15

    morning rehearsal (with piano accompaniment)

  • 13:15 - 14:15

    break lunch (bring a packed lunch or visit the Priory Tea Rooms)

  • 14:15 - 16:45

    afternoon rehearsal (choir, orchestra, organ)

  • 19:00 - 20:00

    concert performance of The Breath of Life

Christchurch Priory photo © Jack Pease
Christchurch Quay
Matthew Coleridge
Matthew Coleridge
SINGER COMMENTS

 Stunningly beautiful, glorious... such a joy to sing. I can't really explain how I felt at the end but it was really quite visceral emotion that I have not experienced before in a choral work.  
Hilary, Sherborne Abbey October 2025

 An emotionally-charged and in places wholly overwhelming experience 
Bob, Selby Abbey November 2025

 An experience unlike any other - The Breath of Life is somthing else! The singer to my left and I both looked at each other with tears in our eyes on that final note. Gooesbumps. 
Claire, Coventry Cathedral 2025

Mailing list
Choral workshops 2026

Come and sing with one of the UK's most exciting choral composers, Matthew Coleridge

 A great force for good in the choral world  - Alexander Armstrong, Classic FM

shrewsbury

Walton Voices & Leatherhead Choral
Saturday 19th September 2026

Come and Sing The Breath of Life, hosted by Walton Voices and Leatherhead Choral Society



shrewsbury

Shrewsbury Abbey
Saturday 26th September 2026

Sing The Breath of Life with massed Shropshire choirs, hosted by Shrewsbury Choral Society



bradford

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