Thoughts of wedding-bells loom large as the Crickhowell Choral Society prepare for their next concert on Saturday November 21st in St Mary’s Priory Church, Abergavenny at 7.30pm.
Soprano, Grace Davidson
The C minor Mass by Mozart is claimed to be his most impressive choral work and rivals the more famous Requiem. Whether Mozart’s marriage was in fact one made in heaven is open to debate but for St. Cecilia such a match was a reality. Mainly famous for being the patron saint of music, Cecilia chose to be wedded to Christ, upholding her vow of chastity in spite of the forced marriage planned by her parents. Her Roman husband, however, accepted her decision upon his conversion on hearing her sing with angels. They were both subsequently martyred for their faith. This remarkable story is vividly portrayed by the Estonian composer.
The choir performs with star sopranos Grace Davidson and Catherine King, who sing the ravishing solos originally sung by Mozart’s wife. “This is a glorious work”, claims conductor Steve Marshall, “and one of my all-time favourites.”
Arvo Pärt’s Cecilia, Virgine Romana, the other work in the programme, is a modern masterpiece, receiving its first Welsh performance. “His music is always distinctive and rewarding to sing”, says Steve, “It is his 80th birthday celebration this year and we will perform on St Cecilia’s own name-day weekend.” The choir are partnered in these works by the British Sinfonietta, now considered one of the top ranking Welsh orchestras.
Tickets at £15 are available from Webbs, Crickhowell; Abergavenny Music (01873) 853394 and Genet Bevan (01873) 810935.
