Visitors taking Chester Cathedral’s brand new tower tour, Cathedral at Height, got more than they bargained for last week as they were treated to a pop-up performance by the Sheffield-based Extreme Cellists at the top of the cathedral’s central tower.
Formed in 2003, the Extreme Cellists, a classical trio from Sheffield, have taken musical performances to new heights, and depths, by playing their cellos in extreme locations. Recent performance sites have included Mam Tor, Padley Gorge, Snowdon and Ben Nevis.
The Extreme Cellists are no strangers to English cathedrals. In 2006 the group performed on the roofs of all of the Anglican cathedrals in England, covering 42 cathedrals in just 12 days. The venture aimed to raise money for two charities, Shelter and Aspire.
In 2008, the group ran the Sheffield half-marathon carrying cellos and playing twice en route.
Vice Dean of Chester Cathedral, Peter Howell-Jones, said:
“We were very pleased to welcome the Extreme Cellists to the cathedral. Our tower tour visitors loved the pop-up performances on the cathedral roof.
We applaud the group for their bravery and their musical skills – but also for their dedication to raising money for charity – and hope they come back to see us soon.”
Image below: Cellists take a top of the tower selfie.
