THE RENNAISSANCE Choir returns to Petersfield next weekend for an evening of candelit music.

The choir, with most of its members coming from south and east Hampshire, performs unaccompanied music from the Renaissance as well as works from later centuries.

Rachmaninov Preludes is the title of the concert, being held at St Peter’s Church on Saturday, October 24, at 7.30pm.

The choir will be performing the complete Rachmaninov Vespers, by candlelight.

In addition, piano soloist Karen Kingsley is playing some preludes by Rachmaninov.

Rachmaninov’s All Night Vigil – more commonly known as his Vespers – are regarded by many musicians as being the finest example of Russian sacred music, performed in plainsong.

Written against a backdrop of political uncertainty in his homeland as the Bolshevik revolution was in its infancy and when the First World War was at its most destructive, it contains an astonishing serenity, tranquility and peacefulness.

Listen also for the sound of bells, which fascinated the composer.

The conductor will be Peter Gambie.

Tickets priced £12, £10, and £2 for students are available from 023 9247 5259 or from One Tree Books in Lavant Street, Petersfield.