Modern Sacred Classics

The Choir and Orchestra of Watford Philharmonic Society, along with Musical Director, Michael Cayton, are delighted to present an evening of Modern Sacred Classics. The programme includes two of the great Requiems by masters of melody, English composer John Rutter and 19th century Frenchman Gabriel Fauré, whose Requiem is unusually serene, focusing on themes of eternal rest and peace. By contrast, John Rutter’s work follows a more traditional form, combining darkly dramatic passages with soaring and exquisite melodies.

We’re especially pleased to dedicate our performance of the Rutter Requiem to the memory of our President and former music director Terry Edwards, whose death was announced earlier this month. Terry conducted this lovely piece in his very first concert with us in 2006.

Our concert was of course planned well before the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second. In her honour we have decided to add two short orchestral pieces to the programme which we feel appropriately reflect the nation’s sadness at her passing as well as affording a celebration of her life. These are the Enigma Variations by Sir Edward Elgar and Faure’s Pavane in F sharp minor.