Our Spring Concert which is held in association with MayFest 2024 contains two contrasting works of praise composed a hundred years apart.
John Rutter – Feel The Spirit
Rutter was inspired to compose this lively and joyful cycle of seven spirituals by British-Canadian mezzo-soprano Melanie Marshall’s solo interpretations of spirituals. The vivid and expressive arrangements showcase the rich heritage of the spiritual. The work brings new life to such well loved titles as Steal away, I got a robe, and When the saints go marching in.
Giuseppi Verdi - Four Sacred Pieces
Verdi's Four Sacred Pieces represent his last published work and these show that even in his eighties Verdi was still capable of composing music of the finest quality. Here in abundance are drama, delicate lyricism, warmth of feeling and religious fervour. Although they are usually sung together, the four pieces were all composed in different years and were intended as self-contained works. He had dedicated 15 years to providing works for the Opera in Paris but here, in his own way, he produces a work inspired by Palestrina of whom he was a profound admirer.
