Centenary Concert | Salisbury Musical Society and Chelsea Opera Group Orchestra

Johannes Brahms - A German Requiem:

Although titled as a requiem, Brahms’s longest composition is more secular than sacred. The text is from the Lutheran Bible, and opens with words from the Beatitudes, “Blessed are they that mourn…”. Brahms avoided Christian dogma, preferring a sympathetic humanism which pervades the work. It is scored for four voice parts, and there are no arias. The soloists are integrated into the movements.

Johannes Brahms - Academic Festival Overture:

The composer's orchestral tribute to student life includes several well known university songs, culminating with the much loved 'Gaudeamus Igitur'.

David Halls - The Beauty of Holiness:

The new anthem for choir and orchestra, The Beauty of Holiness, by David Halls, sets verses from Psalm 96. A reflective opening and a quiet section later are contrasted by sections with lively rhythms and energetic choral writing. This work lasts approximately 8 minutes.