2024 Concerts
8 June Bernstein, Chichester Psalms
With Director of Music, John Linker conducting, the Christchurch City Choir’s second concert of the year features Jeremy Woodside (organ), Hamish Dark (treble), Helen Webby (harp) and Ciaran Wright (percussion).
Leonard Bernstein began writing the 3 movement work in 1963, in response to a request for a work to feature in the Chichester Cathedral’s Music Festival two years later. While adhering to the norms of choral Church music, Bernstein used only Hebrew text and so was able to use the melodic and rhythmic contours of the Hebrew language to dictate mood and melodic character. The contrasts in mood vary from the fiery Psalm 2 “Why do the nations rage?” to the peace and tranquility of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd”. Here Bernstein’s use of harp accompaniment, (played by Helen Webby), is a musical evocation of King David, the shepherd-psalmist.
Chichester Psalms is tuneful, tonal and contemporary, featuring modal melodies and unusual meters. From the time of its sold-out world premiere at Philharmonic Hall on July 15, 1965 conducted by the composer himself, it was apparent that Bernstein had created a magically unique blend of Biblical Hebrew verse and Christian choral tradition; a musical depiction of the composer’s hope for brotherhood and peace.
The Christchurch City Choir will also perform 4 other very well-known Psalm settings by Elgar, Bloch, Lewandowski and Mozart’s famous ‘Laudate Dominum’, also featuring Hamish Dark as treble soloist.
With Director of Music, John Linker conducting, the Christchurch City Choir’s second concert of the year features Jeremy Woodside (organ), Hamish Dark (treble), Helen Webby (harp) and Ciaran Wright (percussion).
Leonard Bernstein began writing the 3 movement work in 1963, in response to a request for a work to feature in the Chichester Cathedral’s Music Festival two years later. While adhering to the norms of choral Church music, Bernstein used only Hebrew text and so was able to use the melodic and rhythmic contours of the Hebrew language to dictate mood and melodic character. The contrasts in mood vary from the fiery Psalm 2 “Why do the nations rage?” to the peace and tranquility of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd”. Here Bernstein’s use of harp accompaniment, (played by Helen Webby), is a musical evocation of King David, the shepherd-psalmist.
Chichester Psalms is tuneful, tonal and contemporary, featuring modal melodies and unusual meters. From the time of its sold-out world premiere at Philharmonic Hall on July 15, 1965 conducted by the composer himself, it was apparent that Bernstein had created a magically unique blend of Biblical Hebrew verse and Christian choral tradition; a musical depiction of the composer’s hope for brotherhood and peace.
The Christchurch City Choir will also perform 4 other very well-known Psalm settings by Elgar, Bloch, Lewandowski and Mozart’s famous ‘Laudate Dominum’, also featuring Hamish Dark as treble soloist.
3 August Will Todd, Mass In Blue
Mass in Blue by Will Todd is a contemporary fusion of the traditional Latin Mass with elements of jazz and blues. Composed in 2003, it showcases Todd's innovative approach to choral music, featuring lively rhythms, soulful melodies, and improvisational sections reminiscent of jazz clubs. The piece seamlessly blends sacred and secular elements, offering a fresh and dynamic interpretation of the Mass, while also inviting audiences to engage with its vibrant and accessible musical language.
The Christchurch City Choir’s performance of Mass in Blue will be conducted by Dr John Linker, featuring Helen Charlton, soprano and accompanied by a jazz trio comprising Jeremy Woodside on keys, Michael Story on bass and Douglas Brush on drums.
Mass in Blue by Will Todd is a contemporary fusion of the traditional Latin Mass with elements of jazz and blues. Composed in 2003, it showcases Todd's innovative approach to choral music, featuring lively rhythms, soulful melodies, and improvisational sections reminiscent of jazz clubs. The piece seamlessly blends sacred and secular elements, offering a fresh and dynamic interpretation of the Mass, while also inviting audiences to engage with its vibrant and accessible musical language.
The Christchurch City Choir’s performance of Mass in Blue will be conducted by Dr John Linker, featuring Helen Charlton, soprano and accompanied by a jazz trio comprising Jeremy Woodside on keys, Michael Story on bass and Douglas Brush on drums.
9 November Last Night of the Proms
7 December Handel, Messiah