Haydn's Seven last words of Christ on the Cross, with readings of classic and contemporary poetry by William Shakespeare, Philip Larkin, Emiliy Dickinson and othes on forgiveness, comfort, relationships, abandonment, distress, accomplishment, reunion, performed by The Bridge Quartet with readings from actor Christopher Kent. All proceeds to Samiritans.
This work, initially commissioned by the Bishop of Cadiz in 1785, is very close to our heart as we have performed it many times notably on London's South Bank and in Ely cathedral. For over 2 decades the quartet have been noted primarily for their numerous fine recordings and performances of music by English composers, but we continue to enjoy discovering and performing many of the very fine quartets of 'Papa' Haydn.
"the Bridge Quartet's players are, as can always be counted on, exemplary in technical address and masters of musicality" Fanfare magazine USA
We are delighted to work with actor Christopher Kent again, following recent collaborations on our Gurney/Howellsb programme 'in Gloucestershire' and our words and music presentation for the Armistice 100 commemorations. For this performance he has chosen a moving and thought-provoking selection to sit between and reflect Haydn's seven meditative movements.
"Christopher Kent was outstanding in Never Such Innocence....breath-stoppingemotion, perfect timing" English Music Festival