The King's Chapel Choir & Soloists join the worldwide celebration of the Benjamin Britten (1913-1976) centennial in a program ranging from popular to obscure. Britten's genius shines especially brightly in his choral music, from the beloved cantata Rejoice in the Lamb, with texts by the brilliant if troubled Christopher Smart, to the more rarely performed wedding anthem Amo, ergo Sum (I love, therefore I am). You will also hear the six beautiful choral dances from Gloriana, Britten's opera about Elizabeth I that was presented as part of Elizabeth II's coronation festivities in 1953, and selections from A.M.D.G., settings of the Jesuit poet Gerard Manley Hopkins.
Also included on this program are solo organ pieces by Britten's teacher Frank Bridge.
Ian Watson is the guest organist for this concert. Watson's first appointment was at St. Margaret’s, Westminster Abbey, at the age of 19. He also held a number of prestigious positions in London including Organist of St. Marylebone Parish church, and Music Director of the historic Christopher Wren Church, St. James’s Piccadilly, and Director of Music at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Worcester, MA.
The concert takes place at 5 PM at historic King's Chapel, 58 Tremont Street in downtown Boston; doors open at 4:30 PM. Admission is by suggested donation of $15, $10 for students & seniors. Closest MBTA stops are Park Street, Government Center & State Street. Validated concert parking in the One Beacon Street garage.
For further information, please call 617-227-2155 or visit www.kings-chapel.org.
