Venetian Vespers for the Ascension | Kingston Choral Society

On 19th November All Saints Church, Kingston will resound to the rich polyphony of Claudio Monteverdi and his musical followers when Kingston Choral Society presents Venetian Vespers for the Ascension. The feast of the Ascension (Fèsta de la Sènsa) was, and remains, a major public celebration of Venice’s glory. It culminates in the renewal of the ritual marriage between the city and the sea, as a symbolic gold ring is thrown into the lagoon. This delightful ‘fantasy’ vespers, devised by Andrew Griffiths, brings together music from Monteverdi’s later publications with sumptuous motets by other composers, reflecting both the religious and the political pomp of this lavish festival.

The evening offers a rare local opportunity to hear the country’s finest period musicians. The Monteverdi String Band and the English Cornett and Sackbut ensemble will accompany the choir, which is conducted by Andrew Griffiths. The eight soloists include members of the highly acclaimed early music vocal ensemble, Stile Antico.