In an exciting collaboration, the Sheffield Chamber Orchestra will join forces with the Steel City Choristers and three acclaimed soloists from Opera North, all conducted by John Lyon.
Bringing together around 70 musicians, the performance promises a sweeping musical retelling of the world’s beginning, drawing inspiration from the Book of Genesis and John Milton’s Paradise Lost.
Haydn’s The Creation is widely regarded as one of the crowning achievements of the classical repertoire. According to Denis McCaldin, Director of the Haydn Society of Great Britain, the composer was inspired to write the piece after attending the grand Handel festivals in London. The result is a magnificent fusion of orchestral brilliance, operatic storytelling, and the rich tradition of English choral music.
One of the most famous moments arrives early in the work with the dramatic orchestral introduction known as “The Representation of Chaos.” This striking musical passage resolves suddenly into a radiant C-major chord as the choir proclaims the words “And there was LIGHT.” Even today, the moment still sends shivers through audiences.
A special highlight of the concert is the participation of the Steel City Choristers, an independent choir that brings children and adults together to perform to cathedral-level standards. Under the direction of Eleanor Jarvis, the choir provides both musical excellence and an inspiring educational experience. Jarvis emphasises the profound sense of achievement young singers feel when mastering a complex work like this, particularly in beloved choruses such as “The Heavens are Telling.”
The production also features three exceptional soloists from Opera North:
Claire Lees (Soprano) performs the roles of the archangel Gabriel and Eve, delivering the lyrical aria “With Verdure Clad,” a celebration of nature’s beauty.
Tom Smith (Tenor) appears as the archangel Uriel, guiding the audience through the unfolding story with both grandeur and reflective warmth.
Andrew Randall (Bass) portrays Raphael and Adam, bringing vivid character to Haydn’s playful musical depictions of animals and creation itself.
Beyond its artistic ambition, the concert also reflects Sheffield Chamber Orchestra’s mission to bring outstanding classical music to the heart of the city. The organisation is currently seeking a Programme Sponsor, offering local businesses an opportunity to support the arts while connecting with Sheffield’s vibrant cultural community.
With its blend of drama, beauty and joyful celebration, this performance promises to be a standout event in Sheffield’s 2026 cultural calendar.
Performance Details
Date: Saturday, 13 June 2026
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Victoria Hall, Norfolk Street, Sheffield
Tickets: £12 in advance / £6 for under-18s
Booking: www.scorchestra.uk
For anyone who loves music, literature, or the timeless power of great storytelling, this promises to be an unforgettable afternoon.
