Baroque Splendour | Yateley Choral Society

About Baroque Splendour | Yateley Choral Society

This concert brings together four contrasting masterpieces that showcase the richness and variety of the Baroque era.

Giovanni Battista Pergolesi is best remembered for his Stabat Mater, but his Magnificat reveals the same gift for lyrical beauty and dramatic contrasts that made him a rising star of the Italian Baroque before his tragically early death at just 26.

From France, Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s festive Te Deum reflects the splendour of Louis XIV’s court. Written to celebrate a military victory, its famous trumpet fanfare prelude has since become one of the most recognisable themes in classical music — adopted in modern times as the Eurovision anthem.

Turning to England, Henry Purcell’s Rejoice in the Lord Alway demonstrates why he is regarded as one of Britain’s greatest composers. Sometimes nicknamed ‘The Bell Anthem’ for its lilting organ ostinato, it pairs joyful energy with moments of tender intimacy.
Finally, George Frideric Handel’s Chandos Anthem No. 8, O Come, Let Us Sing Unto the Lord reflects his flair for theatrical choral writing. Composed during his time as composer-in-residence to the Duke of Chandos, the work brims with exuberant choruses, lyrical solos, and Handel’s unmistakable gift for bringing scripture vividly to life.

With professional guest soloists and a programme drawn from some of the finest composers of the period, this promises to be an evening of true Baroque Splendour.

A pay bar will be available before the concert and during the interval.