Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle, which he wrote towards the end of his life, is being performed by Harpenden Choral Society next Saturday, June 14.

The performance as originally scored will be given at 7.30pm in St Nicholas Church, Church Green, with Alexander Binns on harmonium, Vivien Powles on piano, and conducted by John Andrews.

The soloists will be Jeni Bern, soprano, Kristin Finnegan, alto, Thomas Raskin, tenor, and Callum Thorpe, bass.

Best-known as the composer of The Barber of Seville and William Tell, Rossini wrote the piece towards the end of his prolific life.

The Petite Messe Solennelle is scored for four soloists and chorus with harmonium and piano. It was described by the composer himself as the last of his ‘sins of old age’ – and is known as his final masterpiece.

Tickets are £15 for adults, £5 for children and students, including a programme and a glass of wine or other soft drink at the interval. They can be obtained from the box office manager Tricia Beavis, tickets@harpendenchoralsociety.org or phone 01582 419379.

Alternatively book online at Harpendenchoralsociety.ticketsource.co.uk.