October may seem a long way in the future, but we have a long summer ahead for listening to music, and you may like to dip in to the works I shall be exploring in the next series of Mornings with a Masterpiece. There is a treat in store for all who love choral music!
It is natural for composers to seek out texts which praise their own art and its patron saint, St Cecilia. We shall begin with Purcell’s great ode Hail bright Cecilia (1692) which combines wonderful music with deep philosphy and a wicked sense of humour, and we shall end with Britten’s Hymn to St Cecilia: (1942) – a fascinating comparison in view of Britten’s great affinity for Purcell’s music. In between these two poles lie the tributes to music by Parry – Blest Pair of Sirens (1887) – and Vaughan Williams – Serenade to Music (1938).
Glorious sounds, some magnificent poetry and much to discover in the comparisons. Do join me if you can.
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