Calling all Plymouth choirs! Mayflower 400 needs you

10th May 2019

Do you lead a choir or singing group? Your group could be part of a momentous, global event on Plymouth Hoe for the Mayflower 400 commemorations.

2020 is the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage, one of the most influential journeys in global history and a defining moment in the shared history of Britain, the US and the Netherlands. Plymouth was the Mayflower’s final departure point in the UK and the city is the lead partner in the commemorations.

As part of Mayflower Week, a major four nations ceremony is being planned for Wednesday 16 September 2020.

The ceremony organisers are looking for existing choirs and vocal groups from Plymouth and the surrounding area to take part in the event. While event details are being kept under wraps for now, there will be a new piece of music for the chosen choirs to learn and perform during the ceremony.

Councillor Peter Smith, Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for local people to be involved in one of our signature Mayflower 400 events on Plymouth Hoe. Although we don’t want to reveal too many details at this stage, it’s going to be an amazing global event and we’re thrilled that so many Plymothians will be able to play a key role.”

A wide range of singers are wanted to create a stunning musical performance. This includes people of all ages, backgrounds and differing experience levels – from beginners to fully trained singers.

The event offers the chance for a significant number of people to be involved, but to ensure the right balance of singers, choir leaders must complete an online application form for their group to take part.

Applications must be submitted by Sunday 9 June and all choirs will be notified of the outcome at the beginning of July 2019.

Choir leaders will be required to attend a session to learn the piece of music in January 2020 and then teach it to their groups during normal rehearsals. There will be a full rehearsal in September 2020, just ahead of the main event.

For more information and FAQs, please go to the Mayflower 400 website.