SIR, Monmouth Choral Society should be commended for its recent performance of Handel's oratorio Judas Maccabaeus under the skilful baton of newly appointed musical director Steven Kings. Sensitively complemented by the Regency Sinfonia, with Matthew Bale providing the continuo and an array of superb soloists, this performance proved a successful start to the society's 2014/15 season. The oratorio follows the plight of the Jewish people at the time of the Maccabean Revolt in the second century BC. After the loss of their leader, the story traces their course as another emerges to inspire them into resisting their persecutors. Sorrow, despair, turbulence, pride, jubilation and ultimately hope for the future are all depicted in this colourful composition. It is worthy of note that by the end of Handel's life, Judas Maccabaeus had become his second most popular oratorio, with only three less London performances than Messiah and with music arguably as appealing. Perhaps in the wake of Monmouth's recent success other choir's might be persuaded to revive some of Handel's oratorios that for many years have been overshadowed by the universal popularity of Messiah. However, one could be forgiven for raising an eyebrow at the society's brave choice of work in the current climate of religious extremism and political controversy, yet one might equally take the view that by performing one of Handel's lesser known works the society continues a policy, in conjunction with its umbrella organisation Making Music, of education in the art and science of music. As is the case with oratorio, the success of performance is as much dependent on the art of delivery as on the accuracy of musical annotation and all performers demonstrated they could do both convincingly. It was apparent that after thorough and methodical preparation the choir's confidence allowed time for attention to clarity of enunciation, good intonation and clearly defined entries presenting a well-balanced unity that was sustained throughout. A chillingly moving contribution was made by baritone Niall Hoskin, while Philip Pooley, who gallantly undertook the strenuous tenor role of Judas at incredibly short notice, gave at the very least an acceptable performance. Wendy Nieper (soprano) and Hannah Poulsom (mezzo-soprano) were beautifully expressive in their individual airs and achieved an ideally matched vocal blend in their duets. Following the final chorus of Hallelujah! Amen the appreciation by a substantial audience was reflected in the much deserved hearty applause. This meticulous performance has without doubt sealed a deal to a healthy partnership between musical director Steven Kings and the choir, thus affirming a future of high standard choral singing in Monmouth. The Christmas concert is scheduled for 7.30pm on Saturday 13th December in St Nicholas' Church Trellech. Angela Hoyle (Monmouth)