The Breath of Life - A Choral Workshop Day with Composer Matthew Coleridge
Bell Farm School, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 5NB
Saturday 19th September 2026
Join acclaimed composer Matthew Coleridge for an inspiring day of singing as we explore his beautiful and uplifting cantata, The Breath of Life.
This special workshop offers singers a rare opportunity to learn a major contemporary choral work directly from its composer. Whether you are already familiar with Matthew's music or discovering it for the first time, you will spend the day immersed in soaring melodies, rich harmonies and music that celebrates the wonder of life and the natural world.
Hosted by Walton Voices in partnership with Leatherhead Choral Society, this friendly and welcoming event is designed as an introduction to the work ahead of both choirs' autumn performances. Everyone will be learning together, making it the perfect opportunity to discover the piece from the very beginning.
Throughout the day, Matthew will guide singers through the music, sharing insights into the inspiration behind the work and bringing the score to life in his engaging and approachable style.
"A life-affirming celebration of our connection with the natural world."
"Music of beauty, hope and wonder."
The day will conclude with an informal performance of the work, open to friends and family.
Details of the day
Schedule
Who can take part?
This singing day is open to singers of all abilities, although basic music-reading skills or previous experience of choral singing are essential.
How do I get the music?
Scores will be provided but if you wish to buy your own in advance, they can be purchased here: https://matthewcoleridge.com/the-breath-of-life/
For those keen to get some practice in before the day, voice part rehearsal tracks are also available for download: https://matthewcoleridge.com/the-breath-of-life/practice/
Ticket prices:
General admission: £30
Young people aged 18 to 25 yrs: £10
Please note that places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
“Matthew Coleridge is a great force for good in the choral world” Alexander Armstrong, Classic FM
This special workshop offers singers a rare opportunity to learn a major contemporary choral work directly from its composer. Whether you are already familiar with Matthew's music or discovering it for the first time, you will spend the day immersed in soaring melodies, rich harmonies and music that celebrates the wonder of life and the natural world.
Hosted by Walton Voices in partnership with Leatherhead Choral Society, this friendly and welcoming event is designed as an introduction to the work ahead of both choirs' autumn performances. Everyone will be learning together, making it the perfect opportunity to discover the piece from the very beginning.
Throughout the day, Matthew will guide singers through the music, sharing insights into the inspiration behind the work and bringing the score to life in his engaging and approachable style.
"A life-affirming celebration of our connection with the natural world."
"Music of beauty, hope and wonder."
The day will conclude with an informal performance of the work, open to friends and family.
Details of the day
Schedule
- 9:30am Registration and refreshments
- 10:00am to 11:30am - Session 1
- Tea break
- 11:55am to 1:00pm - Session 2
- 1:00pm - Lunch break
- 2:00pm to 3:15pm - Session 3
- Tea break
- 3:40pm - 4.:30pm - Session 4
- Comfort break
- 4:35pm - Informal performance of selected pieces
- 5:00pm - close
Who can take part?
This singing day is open to singers of all abilities, although basic music-reading skills or previous experience of choral singing are essential.
How do I get the music?
Scores will be provided but if you wish to buy your own in advance, they can be purchased here: https://matthewcoleridge.com/the-breath-of-life/
For those keen to get some practice in before the day, voice part rehearsal tracks are also available for download: https://matthewcoleridge.com/the-breath-of-life/practice/
Ticket prices:
General admission: £30
Young people aged 18 to 25 yrs: £10
Please note that places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
“Matthew Coleridge is a great force for good in the choral world” Alexander Armstrong, Classic FM
