IRELAND These things shall be
PROKOFIEV Alexander Nevsky
VIVALDI Nulla In Mundo Pax Sincera
MOZART Clarinet Concerto K622 (1st Movt.)
Angus Tully Conductor
Katie Grosset Mezzo-soprano
Mike Towers Tenor
Sapphire Armitage Soprano
Angus Macnaughton Clarinet
The cantata Alexander Nevsky is an adaptation of Prokofiev's 1938 film score and was premiered under the direction of the composer in 1939. The seven movements are rich in Russian folk themes: the sorrow of the battlefield, the patriotic fervour of the people. The highlight, as in the film, is the Battle on the Ice, which starts out quietly, ominously, and slowly builds to a frenzy depicting the madness of war. This music is passionate, lyrical and triumphant. Be warned that this performance may test your hearing to its limits, and maybe beyond! The combined Academy choirs also offer John Ireland's seldom performed These things shall be, which was a coronation commission in 1937 and is Ireland's largest choral work. Enjoy, too, solo performances from two final year pupils.
£12/£10/U18s free