Exeter musician's return to conducting for charity concert in aid of Unicef

 A well-known Exeter musician is set to conduct again at the end of September for a special charity concert in the city centre in aid of Unicef, the United Nations Children's Fund. Raymond Calcraft, who was Director of Exeter Philharmonic Choir for fifteen years from 1988 to 2003, led the Choir in more than 80 concerts in the Cathedral, and took them to Spain in 1998 to sing in Madrid's famous Auditorio Nacional and the Cathedral of Salamanca. He also brought the English Chamber and Royal Philharmonic Orchestras to Exeter to perform with the Choir.

Raymond says, "It was extremely sad to have to give up my conducting career in 2003, when I became quite seriously ill, so it is exciting to be making music once more, after many years, with friends from the Choir and outstanding soloists, for a very special cause."

A Concert for Unicef will be given in the presence of the Lord-Lieutenant of Devon and Exeter's Lord Mayor. The programme includes Gabriel Fauré's much-loved Requiem, and music by Dvořák.  Former Cathedral Organist Paul Morgan will also take part, as well as girls from The Maynard School Choir. 

The Unicef concert takes place on Saturday 29th September, in the Southernhay United Reformed Church, starting at 7.30 p.m. Tickets are available in advance from the Exeter Northcott Theatre Box Office, telephone 01392 726363, or at the door.