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Methodists invited to take part in BBC Songs of Praise special for John Wesley's 300th anniversary

Methodists invited to take part in BBC Songs of Praise special for John Wesley's 300th anniversary

BBC TV has invited Methodists in Britain to join a choirof a thousand Methodist voices to celebrate the 300th anniversaryof the birth of John Wesley.

BBC TV's Songs of Praise has invited choirsingers to come to the BIG SING in the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday30 March 2003.

The hymns recorded that day will provide the music for threeeditions of Songs of Praise including a specialprogramme to mark Wesley's tercentenary which will feature eight ofCharles Wesley's greatest hymns.

Paul Leddington Wright (founder of the MAYC Orchestra andSingers) will be conducting the singing, accompanied by the BBCConcert Orchestra. The evening will be hosted by Pam Rhodes andAled Jones.

There will be one rehearsal prior to the event at the MethodistCentral Hall, Westminster, on Sunday 23 March 2003 from 14.30-17.30and choir members will also be required in the Royal Albert Hallfrom 14.30 on 30 March. The recording begins at 18.30. Choirmembers will receive free entry to the event and will be seated inthe Arena.

This Wesley special edition of Songs of Praise is planned to bebroadcast in June 2003 to coincide with the 300th anniversaryitself. The programme is also planned to feature separate locationfilming around some of the places associated with Wesley'slife.

Please note: It is very important that ticket holders attendboth the choir rehearsal on 23 March and the afternoon rehearsal on30 March.

Important update, 11 February 2003 - Please notethat, after exceptional demand, all places have now been taken forthe Choir of 1,000 Methodist Voices and the general congregationplaces. Please do not make any more enquiries or orders from theBBC, the Methodist Church or the Royal AlbertHall.

Visit Songs of Praise online