On Saturday March 18th, the 80 strong Marches Choir of Bishop’s Castle, joining with Cantorion Aberteifi from Cardigan, West Wales, will take to the concert platform for their Spring Concert. They will present a feast of choral music from composers of the late 19th century, with a Czech - Germanic flavour that will delight audiences with a taste for rich, sonorous harmonies and deeply moving melodic beauty.
The featured work is by Antonin Dvorák, one of the most influential composers of his era, whose Mass in D exemplifies his exquisite and refreshing style of writing. With the inclusion of Czech folk song and modes, Dvorák’s Mass captures the essence of the familiar movements (Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus and so on) and employs a startling variety of harmonic variety in the sometimes unconventional but effective chords and key changes. There are some lovely solo sections within the work which will be performed by Caroline Clarke (soprano) and selected choir members.
The Te Deum, a shorter but equally large-scale work, is uplifting and forward-looking in its lively setting of the text which is one of praise and celebration.
Dvorák poured heart and soul into this music and the result is two perfectly crafted works which will both move and thrill the listener.
Schubert's Mass in G is a beautiful work, never ostentatious but melodic and devotional in style. Schubert was a highly gifted lyrical composer with an exquisite sense of melody and drama, both of which are displayed in this short mass - a choral gem.
The Marches Choir will again be joined by the Marches Sinfonia for this uplifting concert. A treat for all music lovers!