Herts Chorus on tour presents Smith, Bernstein and Rutter at Bath Abbey at Bath Abbey

Hertfordshire Chorus makes its long-awaited debut in the beautiful city of Bath with a compelling programme of twentieth century choral music.

Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms provides an electrifying mix of Broadway energy and traditional sacred music. Commissioned for Chichester Cathedral in 1965, Bernstein’s setting of Hebrew psalms pulses with the same rhythmic vitality that made West Side Story a global phenomenon.

Prepare to be swept away by the triumphant radiance of John Rutter’s well-loved Gloria (1974) offering three movements of unabashed joy. From its blazing brass fanfares to its tender central ‘Domine Deus’, this is Rutter at his most melodic and exuberant.

Judge Smith’s Requiem Mass is an utterly distinctive work that fuses progressive rock with symphonic choral music. It was given its first concert performance last year in London by Hertfordshire Chorus to rave reviews, over 50 years after its composition. Originally conceived in 1973 by legendary progressive rock band Van der Graaf Generator’s co-founder, this 30- minute work features solo vocalist, full choir, eight-piece brass section, percussion, and rock band, to create a soaring, moving, and thrilling experience.

Programme

Judge Smith - Requiem Mass

Bernstein - Chichester Psalms

John Rutter - Gloria

Performers

Alastair Brookshaw tenor

Maurice Marten treble

Rufus Frowde organ

Matt Turner percussion

Ruth Faber harp

Rock band plus percussion

Bath Philharmonia Brass Ensemble

Hertfordshire Chorus

David Temple conductor