Concert in aid of funds for Highland Cathedral repair to welcome 25 strings players from across the north Highlands

Dornoch Cathedral will be the setting for an “exceptional” evening of classical music on May 10.

A group of 25 strings players from the north Highlands will come together to form the Classics for Strings orchestra for a one-night performance, with organisers hoping that the concert can help to fund “urgent” repairs to the 13th-century building.

RELATED:

‘Fantastic’ New Year’s concert at Dornoch Cathedral

Overwhelming support from Dornoch Firth congregation for appointment of Rev Carol Anne Porter as permanent minister

Dornoch Cathedral congregation to vote on permanent minister after service on January 12

Dornoch Cathedral, which hosts much of the worship and services for the Dornoch Firth Parish, requires funds of £40,000 to cover the costs of its upkeep.

Willie MacKay, speaking on behalf of Dornoch Parish Fund Raising Group, said: “Since the early 13th century, the Cathedral in Dornoch has been a focal point of the town and has a long and interesting history.

“Like so many of our churches and historic buildings, it needs funds for urgent repairs, and last year £60,000 was raised towards its upkeep.

“This year, the target required is £40,000.

“Classics for Strings will be an exceptional evening in the far north and we are delighted to have such support assisting the costs of maintaining and improving the Cathedral.

“We hope it will attract music lovers from far and wide.”

Conducted by D James Ross, the Classics for Strings programme will include works by Elgar, Finzi, Verdi, Dvorak, Bartok, Morricone and Jenkins.

Soloist Hasmik Harutyunyan is also slated to make an appearance at the show.

Mr MacKay added: “We are delighted that Hasmik Harutyunyan, will be our soloist for the evening.

“Hasmik made her debut at London’s Wigmore Hall in 2023 with the National Opera Studio and her recent engagements include lead roles in Eugene Onegin, Fidelio with the ENO, and Cosi fan Tutte with the WNO.”

Entry to the concert will be by programme, available at the door from 7.30pm. The show is scheduled to start at 8pm.

Programme price is £10 per person; £7.50 for age 16 and under.

All proceeds will go to the Cathedral restoration fund.

The performance will last for approximately one hour with no interval.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.