Westminster choirmaster to tutor ESU singers

The ESU A Cappella Choir has scheduled a new stop on their tour of the British Isles and France next week. Choirmaster James O'Donnell of London's Westminster Abbey has agreed to give the group a clinic and critique session.

"The opportunity for the choir to work with one of the finest choirmasters in the world is an unparalleled opportunity for our singers to grow personally and collectively as a first-rate choral ensemble," said director Terry Barham.

Located next to the Parliament on the River Thames, the 900-year-old Abbey is the traditional setting for royal coronations. Every monarch, since William the Conqueror with the exception of Edward V and Edward VIII was crowned in the Abbey.

The tour will start May 26 in Glasgow, Scotland and end June 6, the day after the choir's performance in the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The choir will also perform in Edinburgh's St. Giles Cathedral, and St. Paul's Covent Garden Church, across from the famous Covent Garden Opera House.

"I'm grateful the students will represent what we in the ESU music department stand for-talented and focused learners and performers who have the desire to share the beauty of music from cultures around the world," said Barham.

The members of the A Cappella Choir are:

Last Updated July 2, 2007>