7.30 pm
(ends 9.10 pm approximately)
St Mary's Church, Bury St Edmunds
Rossini: Petite Messe Solennelle
Fae Evelyn soprano
Valerie Reid mezzo-soprano
Robert Murray tenor
Graeme Danby bass
James Recknell piano
Christopher Moore harmonium
Bury Bach Choir
Philip Reed conductor
This concert is devoted to Rossini’s last great work, the Petite Messe Solennelle. In the first half of the nineteenth century, Rossini was widely considered to be Europe’s most famous and celebrated composer. Today his reputation rests primarily on his comic operas, notably the superb Barber of Seville and the ever popular overture to William Tell, as well as on this evening’s work, hailed by many as his most finely-crafted achievement.
The title of the Petite Messe Solennelle is famously misleading: it’s neither small nor solemn! The work is unmistakably operatic in style, full of passion, drama and poignancy. The music ranges from hushed intensity to boisterous high spirits, and abounds in the memorable tunes and rhythmic vitality for which Rossini became justly famous. Though based on the liturgy of the mass, this is a work not of profound religious insight, but rather one that is a delightful, life-enhancing musical experience.
We look forward to providing you with a richly melodious and highly entertaining evening.
Booking opens 7 September 2015
Tickets £20 (reserved) and £14 (unreserved)
Early booking discount £1 off all tickets booked by 17 October 2015