MAKING live music in the city since 1860, Southampton Philharmonic Choir are one of the longest-established and most respected choirs in Southern England.

Their latest offering, at 02 Guildhall Southampton on Saturday March 18, is Shades of Blues - Todd, Gershwin and Tippett.

Mass in Blue is the perfect fusion of a traditional setting of the Mass with a variety of different styles of blues, jazz and gospel, backed by a jazz quartet of piano, bass, drums and alto sax with a spectacularly virtuoso soprano soloist soaring over the ensemble.

The piece has a freshness and immediate appeal that audiences of all ages and backgrounds adore and are easily swept up by the energy, rhythmic drive and some exquisite tunes.

Tippett's Spirituals represent some of the most affectionate and sensitive arrangements of these well-known and much loved songs from the deep south of America, including 'Deep river' and 'Go down Moses' - familiar music in glorious arrangements.

Gershwin's opera Porgy and Bess was one of his several attempts to be taken seriously as a composer of major significance. The result has given us some of the greatest melodies of all time, clearly demonstrated in these stunning arrangements of standards including 'Summertime', 'Bess you is my woman now' and 'It ain't necessarily so'.

Southampton Philharmonic Choir are a large choir performing choral music from the classical and contemporary repertoire with professional orchestras and soloists. They sing with the Southampton University Philharmonic Choir, giving them a unique blend of youthful and experienced voices.

Tickets are available from 023 8063 2601 or 02guildhallsouthampton.co.uk