Mornings with a Masterpiece: Hail, bright Cecilia: from Purcell to Britten

Rosemary Broadbent

The English choral tradition is rich in celebrations of music and its patroness, giving composers the chance to praise their own art in grand style. Our first study, Purcell’s ode Hail bright Cecilia (1692) is a masterpiece of the genre, full of splendour and display, but also creating a humorous contest for supremacy between the instruments.

Three modern celebrations of the power of music will be the focus for the second morning: Parry’s ode Blest Pair of Sirens, the Serenade to Music by Vaughan Williams, and Benjamin Britten’s Hymn to Saint Cecilia.  With poetry by Shakespeare, Milton and W H Auden included, there will be much to discuss in the contrasting styles of these lovely pieces, and in the deeper philosophical meanings embodied in the words.

Thursday October 12th                   10am – 12.30pm        Purcell           

Thursday October 19th                     10am – 12.30pm        Parry, Vaughan Williams. and Britten

Each morning will consist of two one-hour lecture/discussions delivered via Zoom. There will be a twenty-minute break for coffee, during which the meeting will remain open for informal conversation.

Day:  Thursdays         Time: 10.00-12.30 BST

VENUE:         ZOOM LECTURE

Price for an Individual Lecture: 

Price Concessions Minimum No. Maximum No.
£15 5 24

Price for both lectures: 

Price Concessions Minimum No. Maximum No.
£27 5 24

Please send bookings and enquiries to:
Rosemary Broadbent, 26 Bowden Lane, Marple, Stockport SK6 6ND

rosemary.broadbent@st-hughs.oxon.org        Tel: 07801-491031

Cheques payable to Rosemary Broadbent. Details for bank transfer will be supplied on request. Bookings close one week before each event.

If you are unfamiliar with Zoom, help is available. Please contact the lecturer in advance.