Rare masterpiece coming to Exeter Cathedral in major concert debut

A rarely performed Baroque masterpiece will be heard in Exeter Cathedral next month when Exeter Philharmonic Choir stages Handel’s oratorio Solomon as part of its annual Lord Mayor’s Concert.

The performance, on Saturday 14 March 2026, marks a first for the choir and is believed to be the first time the full work has been performed in the cathedral since its composition in 1748.

Handel’s Solomon is known for its dramatic storytelling, rich orchestration and elaborate choral writing. 

Although the complete oratorio is seldom performed, one of its instrumental movements – commonly known as the “Arrival of the Queen of Sheba” – is among the most recognisable pieces in the Baroque repertoire. 

The lively orchestral interlude, which opens Act III, depicts the grandeur of the Queen of Sheba’s visit to King Solomon and has become a popular choice at ceremonial occasions, including the London 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony.

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Exeter Philharmonic Choir will perform the work in eight parts, accompanied by period instrument ensemble Endelienta Baroque. 

Four soloists will take the principal roles: mezzo-soprano Martha McLorinan as King Solomon; soprano Amy Carson as both Solomon’s Queen and the Queen of Sheba; tenor Hugo Hymas as Zadok the Priest; and bass Timothy Dickinson as the Levite.

The role of Solomon is traditionally sung by a woman, in keeping with Baroque performance practice. 

At the work’s 1749 premiere, the part was written for a mezzo-soprano, reflecting the 18th-century convention of heroic male roles being performed by female singers or castrati.

Martha McLorinan, who is originally from the South West and has performed internationally in venues including Moscow, Hamburg and Salt Lake City, will take on the title role. She has been described by The Guardian as having “warm expressivity” and said she is pleased to return to perform in the region.

Howard Ionascu, Director of Music at Exeter Philharmonic Choir, said the performance represents another milestone for the ensemble. 

“Handel’s masterpiece brings to life a compelling story about the deeds and wisdom of King Solomon,” he said. 

“Although the ‘Arrival of the Queen of Sheba’ in the final act will be recognisable to many, this oratorio is rarely performed in its entirety, and is another musical ‘first’ for the choir.”

Exeter Philharmonic Choir’s spring concert is traditionally billed as the Lord Mayor’s Concert, reflecting the Lord Mayor of Exeter’s role as the choir’s Honorary President. 

A retiring collection will be taken in support of the current Lord Mayor’s chosen charity, Riding for the Disabled (RDA) – Exeter Group.

Tickets for the concert are available via the Exeter Philharmonic Choir website.