One of Bristol's leading choirs is giving its first performance with its new musical director.

Henleaze-based Bristol Bach Choir will perform Handel's Messiah in Bristol Cathedral on March 21 at 7.30pm.

At the end of last year, the choir's conductor of 10 years, Peter Leech, left the post to focus on his academic work, and his replacement, Gavin Carr, will take the helm for the first time.

The choice of music has historical significance as Bristol Cathedral was the first place of worship in which the Messiah was performed in 1758.

The choir will be joined by soloists Lesley-Jane Rogers, Pamela Rudge, young tenor Will Unwin, bass baritone Stephen Foulkes and the Bradford Baroque Band on period instruments.

Mr Carr, 43, who lives in Bath and is also musical director of the Bath Minerva Choir, said he had been rehearsing with the choir since January.

"It is going really well," he said. "They are a great bunch of people and the choir seems to have a new energy about them. "I am really looking forward to the performance, it is a great piece, a great venue and we have great soloists."

Tickets cost between £10 and £20 from Musicbox on 01275 349010 or on the door.