Seasonal string concert to raise essential funds for Victorian chapel in Woodbridge

On Friday 14 December, The C Strings will return by popular demand to the Seckford Almshouses Chapel, with a delightful seasonal concert.

The C Strings, who first performed at the Almshouses Chapel in June, are an unusual string quartet featuring three violas and a violoncello da spalla – a small cello played on the shoulder, the only instrument of its kind in the UK.

The festive concert will feature work from composers Vivaldi, Bach and Mozart, as well as a medley of Christmas favourites. Hosted in the Seckford Almshouses historic Victorian Chapel, the event aims to fundraise for the Chapel’s vital refurbishment project.

Originally built in 1842, the Grade II listed chapel is a hidden gem on the Seckford Almshouses site, on Seckford Street, and is well-used by Almshouse residents for events and religious services. The festive concert is part of a fundraising campaign to carry out necessary changes to ensure the Chapel can be used and enjoyed for future generations, including new flooring, upgraded heating, new seating and better disabled access. There will also be potential for wider community groups and individuals to use the Chapel for special events once the refurbishment is complete.

Sarah Kopferschott, Head of Seckford Care, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome The C Strings back to perform a selection of seasonal favourites. We look forward to welcoming the local community into our magnificent Victorian chapel and share in our efforts to restore this superb space.”

Tickets to the concert cost £10 on the door. Proceeds will be split evenly between the refurbishment of the Almshouses Chapel and musician’s expenses. The concert, on Friday 14 December at 1.30pm, is in the Chapel at the Seckford Almshouses on Seckford Street, Woodbridge, IP12 4NB. For more information about the event, call the Seckford Almshouses on 01394 386520.