David Briggs, one of the world’s greatest concert organists, is to return to Solihull School to help launch its Old Choristers’ Association.

The former pupil will accompany Solihull School Chapel Choir on the Chapel’s magnificent Nicholson organ in a performance of his Requiem at 6pm on Saturday, November 17 in an all-inclusive day of celebrations to highlight Solihull School’s unique choral tradition.

Old choristers, organ scholars, chaplains, headmasters, organists and choirmasters are being invited to attend what promises to be one of the most exciting events in Solihull School’s 452-year history.

More than 70 guests have already accepted invitations to a packed programme that will begin with a Choral Evensong service at 3.30pm rehearsed and conducted by CBSO Chorus Master Simon Halsey, a world-leading conductor of choral repertoire, and led by Old Silhillian Bishop David Tustin.

They will be joined by the Chapel Choir, led by Organist and Choirmaster Oliver Walker, which has sung this year at St George’s Chapel, Windsor and been invited to sing at St Paul’s Cathedral in February 2013.

Professor John Butt, Paul Hale and Iain Simcock, all renowned organists and past pupils, will each play the organ during the service. 

Guests are also being invited to lunch in the Refectory, talks with the School Archivist John Loynton, and a school tour hosted by current students. 

Oliver Walker said: “I am delighted that so many past pupils and supporters will be celebrating our unique choral tradition. Any former choristers who wish to come should contact The School Office.

“I hope the launch of our Old Choristers’ Association will raise our current Choir’s awareness of the tradition to which they belong, as well as provide past members with a way to keep up to date with each other and the Choir.”

Further information on the Old Choristers’ Association is available at www.silhillians.net/The-OSA/Solihull-School-Old-Choristers-Association.