Bach Choir of Wellington: French Impressions
- Date: 19/07/2025 14:00 - 15:30
- Location: St Mary of the Angels
- Tickets: $25.00 | $30.00 | School Children Free Entry
Join us for French Impressions, an exciting programme of French Romantic choral music at St. Mary of the Angels. This concert features Louis Vierne's Messe Solennelle, Op. 16, and Gabriel Fauré's Requiem, Op. 48, two deeply expressive works that embody the boldness and tenderness of these masters' compositional styles. The Bach Choir of Wellington welcomes soprano Rowena Simpson and baritone Joe Haddow, with Douglas Mews (organ), to bring these luminous works to life in this resonant acoustic.
Vierne originally envisaged his Messe Solennelle to be accompanied by orchestra but his teacher, Charles-Marie Widor, advised him to use two organs (for practical reasons). Written while Vierne was organist at Notre-Dame de Paris, the work showcases his mastery of harmony with moments of both solemnity and radiant joy.
Fauré's Requiem is a beautiful contrast to Vierne's mass, offering a more intimate and consoling vision of the afterlife. When asked why he had composed it, he declared, "my Requiem wasn't written for anything - for pleasure, if I may call it that!". Beloved for its gentle melodies and serenity, the Requiem reflects Fauré's belief in eternal rest and peace.
We invite you to experience this afternoon of majestic and introspective French choral music.
Tickets available on Eventfinda and at the door.
