The Halifax Choral Society was formed in 1817, the idea being mooted at a dinner party at the house of William Priestley at Lightcliffe. Priestley was an enthusiastic musician and scholar, and an authority on music. He had a beautiful handwriting, and used to write out the programmes for the concerts. At the first performance by the Society on February 9, 1818, Haydn's Creation was given. Dr. Tysoe, who is conducting tonight, is organist of Leeds Parish Church.

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