Harpenden Choral Society has an established reputation for high quality performances with professional soloists and orchestras. We give four concerts a year including a carol concert and hold an open workshop or ‘Come and Sing’ event once a year. Most of our concerts are in the Harpenden area. Since our formation in 1975 the choir has grown from strength to strength and our repertoire now includes most of the major choral works as well as some lesser-known works and contemporary pieces.
Harpenden Choral Society is delighted to present a concert bringing together two contrasting yet complementary works. Conducted by Musical Director John Andrews with the King’s Sinfonietta, soloists Susanna MacRae, Lawrence Thackeray, Felix Kemp and organist Richard Gowers.
Puccini’s Messa di Gloria, written when he was just 21, shows the early brilliance of a composer who would later become one of opera’s great storytellers. Full of sweeping melodies, lively choruses and warm, expressive solos, the music is rich, dramatic and instantly appealing.
John Rutter’s Magnificat, first performed in 1990, is bright, rhythmic and uplifting. Inspired by the vibrant festival celebrations in Spanish‑speaking countries, it sparkles with energy and moments of calm reflection.
Although written more than a century apart, both works bring sacred texts to life with memorable melodies, expressive choral writing and a shared spirit of joy and praise.
This season marks the Harpenden Choral Society’s 50th Anniversary and we hope you can join us for this final concert of the season as we celebrate this significant milestone.
50th ANNIVERSARY SEASON CONCERT DIARY
