A CHOIR from Wokingham will bid farewell to its musical director after three successful years.

Wokingham Choral Society will welcome a new musical director following the departure of Patrick Allies who is moving to Washington DC, in the USA, to take up a prestigious post.

The choir's Summer Concert on Saturday, June 23 will be Mr Allies' final performance with the group.

James Morley Potter will become the society's new musical director from September 1.

With a wealth of experience in conducting, singing and writing, James already directs choirs at St Mary's Church, in Battersea, London, and the Cathedral Singers at Christ Church Cathedral, in Oxford.

Having received a formative musical education as a chorister at Bath Abbey, he went on to read Music at The Queen's College, University of Oxford. Following this, he began his career as a professional singer in the choirs of Magdalen College and Christ Church Cathedral, performing on critically acclaimed recordings and touring across the world. While in Oxford, he also held conducting positions including Pusey House, The Arcadian Singers, and others. He holds diplomas in choral direction and organ performance from the Royal College of Organists.

The Summer Concert will feature a mixed repertoire of pieces, including works by Gilbert and Sullivan and Rutter.

The concert takes place at All Saint's Church from 7.30pm. Tickets are £12.50, £5 for students and under 18s. For more details visit www.wokingham-choral-society.org.uk