SIR, Wyastone Concert Hall was the setting on Saturday 3rd May for Monmouth Choral Society's performance of Elijah. Written for the Birmingham Music Festival in 1846, Mendelssohn recounts the Old Testament story through a series of musical tableaux. The journey of the prophet, from his grim prediction of drought through to his final triumphant chariot journey to heaven, was presented in a well-paced and disciplined performance from the 100 strong chorus under the solid direction of Huw Williams, assisted by the ever-efficient Regency Sinfonia (Leader: Laurence Kempton) who set the mood well in the fugal overture. The opening chorus, Help Lord, like so many that followed, had a biting attack with good diction and each vocal line clearly articulated. Thomas Elwin's exquisite tenor voice was heard to superb effect in If With All Your Hearts. In What Have I To Do With Thee? Soprano Julie Cooper captured the urgency of the grieving widow and Stuart Young provided Elijah's reassurance. His firm, expressive bass voice added intensity to the role throughout the performance. The Baal choruses were a highlight, with the choir responsive to its status in the narrative and drama. Lord God of Abraham was wonderfully expressive and Martha McLorinan gave a vivid account of Woe Unto Them. Emma Williams ably sang the part of The Youth before Thanks Be To God brought the first half to a rousing close. Hear Ye, Israel, sung in superb declamatory style, led into Be Not Afraid and Woe To Him, which the conductor drove forward with good balance. Lift Thine Eyes and He Watching Over Israel contrasted well with a good range of dynamic and tonal control, as did the aria O Rest in the Lord. The four soloists blended beautifully in O Come Every One That Thirsteth. The final chorus And Then Shall Light Break Forth brought Huw Williams' final concert as musical director of Monmouth Choral Society to a close. A most enjoyable evening with some wonderful music making that showed clear evidence of much detailed preparation. The choir was very assured and the solo singing superb. Keith Ellerington (Monmouth Choral Society)