THE Sixteen, under the directorship of Harry Christophers, pictured, return to Winchester Cathedral on Friday, April 13, as part of their annual choral pilgrimage with a programme focusing on Allegri's famous setting of the Miserere Mei, together with other works by Palestrina, Anerio and Marenzio The programme gives a rare insight on the world of the papal chapels and, in particular, the most famous of all, the Sistine Chapel. It is known primarily for its decorations, but just as magnificent is the music that was written for the Papal Choir. The music on The Sixteen's 2007 Pilgrimage is all to be found in the Vatican library.

Allegri is one of those composers whose reputation and renown rests on a single work. The Miserere was performed annually by the Papal Choir and reserved for its exclusive use; indeed, if you copied it, you faced excommunication.

For tickets, ring the cathedral box office on 01962 857275 or e-mail boxoffice@winchester-cathedral.org.uk