The Lea Singers will perform Rachmaninov’s haunting All-Night Vigil in the beautiful surroundings of St. Albans Abbey.
The jewel in the crown of Russian Orthodox sacred choral music, Rachmaninov’s Vespers stand as one of the greatest works ever written for unaccompanied voices. Rachmaninov uses Greek and Kiev plainsong chant over rich harmonies, all underpinned by the distinctive ‘basso profundo’ Russian sound. Punctuating the movements will be readings from the Psalms, chosen by conductor Quintin Beer.
The composer loved the work so much that he requested the hauntingly beautiful Nunc Dimittis be sung at his own funeral.
Update:
At the time of writing, the Russian army has invaded Ukraine. Overnight, our Russian All-Night Vigil has become poignant and meaningful in ways we could never have anticipated.
Vigils are about waiting.They are a response to suffering and pain. But they are shaped by the conviction that reconciliation and peace are always possible. This concert is dedicated to all those who are affected by the conflict in Ukraine. May we see a peaceful outcome for all.
Our retiring collection is for British-Ukrainian Aid, who have been supporting those affected by the war and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine since 2014. Please give generously.
Tickets
Tickets are £15 (£5 under-18s and students), on sale now from the St. Albans Abbey box office. Book online using the button above or telephone 01727 890290.
Venue
St Albans Abbey, St Albans, Herts AL1 1BY map
Programme
The All-Night Vigil Rachmaninov
A Prayer for Ukraine Mykola Lysenko
Lea Singers
Quintin Beer conductor