A second “open rehearsal”, this time of Haydn’s Creation was given on 3rd. May, 1867 to round off the first season’s activities.  This was an even greater success. In the interim, the choir had recruited many more members and the orchestra included, in addition to local players, “several members of Mr. Charles Halle’s celebrated band”.  A total of 230 singers and players took part.
 
The Mercury of 8th. May, 1867 records this an “unqualified triumph”.  After remarking that Derby could no longer be called an unmusical town, it goes on: “not only was the largest hall in the town  [the Corn Exchange] crowded to excess but we are informed that scores were turned away from the doors for whom the managers were unable to find room.”

Extracts from "Derby Choral Union - The First Hundred Years" by Peter Haslam.