Harpenden Choral society concert

SATURDAY 20th JUNE AT 7.30 pm

ST JOHN’S CHURCH, ST JOHN’S ROAD, HARPENDEN AL5 1DJ

PUCCINI: MESSA DI GLORIA

RUTTER: MAGNIFICAT

Harpenden Choral Society is delighted to present a concert bringing together two contrasting yet complementary works. Conducted by Musical Director John Andrews with the King’s Sinfonietta, soloists Susanna MacRae, Lawrence Thackeray, Felix Kemp and organist Richard Gowers.

Puccini’s Messa di Gloria, written when he was just 21, shows the early brilliance of a composer who would later become one of opera’s great storytellers. Full of sweeping melodies, lively choruses and warm, expressive solos, the music is rich, dramatic and instantly appealing.

John Rutter’s Magnificat, first performed in 1990, is bright, rhythmic and uplifting. Inspired by the vibrant festival celebrations in Spanish-speaking countries, it sparkles with energy and moments of calm reflection.

Although written more than a century apart, both works bring sacred texts to life with memorable melodies, expressive choral writing and a shared spirit of joy and praise.

This season marks the Harpenden Choral Society’s 50th Anniversary. The choir has gone from strength to strength in the last 50 years performing a wide range of works from all periods to audiences in Harpenden and the local area. We hope you can join us for this final concert of the season as we celebrate this significant milestone.

Tickets: £20 (adults), £10 (students 18 or over). Tickets are available at Thompsons Close Café, Thompsons Close, Harpenden AL5 4ES and from tickets@harpendenchoralsociety.org or online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/harpendenchoralsociety