Christmas concert, including Britten Ceremony of Carols

7:30pm, Sat, 21 Dec 2024

Event Details

Type of event: Performance
Start time: 7:30pm
End time: 9:30pm
Venue: St Cross Church, Winchester SO23 9SD
  See map below
Description:

We return to the beautiful setting of the Chapel of St. Cross, with its characteristics and atmosphere fit for any festive celebration. As usual, favourite carols will be on the programme for you to join in and celebrate, alongside some true Christmas gems that the choir will perform.

In a slight change of tack this year, we are thrilled to welcome Alis Huws to play the harp alongside Southern Voices. Benjamin Britten is one of this country’s finest composers and will be remembered for a whole host of contributions to the music world. Undoubtedly, one such gem is his Ceremony of Carols, an extended choral composition for Christmas from 1942. Originally scored for and most frequently performed by three-part treble chorus, Southern Voices will treat you to its 1943 arrangement for mixed choir. Less frequently performed, this will be a real treat and the perfect way to round off what has been a superb year of music-making.

Programme:

  • Audience Carol: Once in royal David’s city
  • Es Ist ein’ Ros’ Entsprungen - harmony by Michael Praetorius
  • Virga Jesse, floruit - Bruckner
  • -- Organ solo
  • Audience Carol: O little town of Bethlehem
  • Gabriel’s Message - Stephen Paulus.  Alis Huws harp
  • The Three Kings - Cornelius
  • -- Organ solo
  • Audience Carol: O come, all ye faithful
  • Quelle est cette odeur agréable - arranged Willcocks
  • A Ceremony of Carols - Benjamin Britten.  Alis Huws harp
  • -- Organ solo
  • What sweeter music - John Rutter
  • Audience carol: Hark! The herald-angels sing
  • O be joyful - Toby Young

Retiring collection in aid of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

Map

View on Google Maps website