Jonathan Rea who conducts the New Irish
Choir and Orchestra, with his lather Rev Harry Rea.
A 'CLASSIC praise concert' to raise funds
for the Royal Victoria Hospital's Liver Support Group will
take place in Lisburn Congregational Church later this
month. The event on January 20 has been organised by local
minister Rev Harry Rea. It will feature the new Irish
Chamber Choir and Orchestra conducted by Rev. Rea's son
Jonathan.
Just over four years ago, Rev Rea was
given a successful liver transplant in King's College
Hospital, London, after a long period of life-threatening
illness.
The concert is one of a number of events
he has organised to raise funds for the Support Group which
is a registered charity funding hospital equipment and
research into liver disease.
It also assists families who have to travel
to England for vital transplant surgery which is not
currently available in Northern Ireland.
As well as the Orchestra and Choir the
concert will feature a number of local soloists and Scottish
Soprano Sylvia Burnside. Artistic Director Jonathan Rea
said: "The evening will provide something for everyone, with
a great mix of Christian music sung by the choir, orchestra
and soloists, along with plenty of opportunities for the
audience to join in with the great classic hymns."
Mr. Rea explained the concert was 'something
of a homecoming' for the New Irish. "Our founder 13 years
ago was Lisburn-born composer, Keith Getty, who now lives in
the USA," he went on.
"For me personally, it's a great pleasure to
bring the group back to his home town, while at the same
time being able to contribute to an event which will raise
money for such a good cause.
"I know the RVH Liver Support Group was a
great help to my father at the time of his transplant, and
all of us in the group are delighted to be part of this
exciting event." New Irish Arts is a Christian organisation
which exists to present Christianity through the Arts.
The choir and orchestra have performed to
sell-out audiences in the Waterfront Hall on many occasions,
as well as producing local events in venues throughout
Ireland. The group also perform regularly on BBC and RTE
radio and TV.
The concert will take place at the Church on
the Saintfield Road, at 7.45pm.
Tickets, which include light refreshments,
are £10 and can be bought at the Faith Mission Bookshop,
Lisburn or directly from Rev Rea, who can be contacted on
9266 5491 or 07854 499427.
It will also be possible to purchase
tickets at the door although anyone wishing to attend is
strongly advised to buy them in advance to avoid
disappointment.
