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A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten and Sacred Music by John Tavener & Arvo Pärt

A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten and Sacred Music by John Tavener & Arvo Pärt photo
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Teatro Niccolini, Florence
About event −

This December, in the awe-inspiring setting of Southwark Cathedral, Red Events presents a luminous Christmas programme centred on Benjamin Britten’s ‘A Ceremony of Carols’.

Written in 1942 during Britten’s sea voyage from the USA to England and premiered at Wigmore Hall in 1943, the cycle of 12 short movements for voices and harp sets ancient English and Latin texts with disarming clarity and brilliance. By turns mystical, playful and radiant, it has become one of the most beloved works of the Christmas season. In 2023, the musical world marked the 80th anniversary of this iconic masterpiece.

This special London performance enriches Britten’s masterpiece with sacred reflections by Sir John Tavener and Arvo Pärt — voices of our own time who, like Britten, have sought the intersection of spirituality and sound. Soprano Patricia Rozario OBE, a long-time muse of Taverner, will offer personal insight into his music, alongside her role as narrator and soloist.

Completing the programme, seasonal works by Ralph Allwood and other masters of English song invite audiences into the intimacy of a truly English Christmas.

The concert also features harpist Eleanor Medcalf, the Ralph Allwood Singers, and will be conducted by Ralph Allwood MBE DMus, one of the UK’s leading choral directors. Alongside Patricia Rozario, other distinguished opera soloists will bring their voices to this seasonal programme, offering expressive highlights and individual arias that enrich the evening’s texture.

Completing the programme, seasonal works by Ralph Allwood and other masters of English song invite audiences into the intimacy of a truly English Christmas. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Advent and Christmas in the grandeur of Southwark Cathedral.

Concert Start Time: 19:00

Duration 60 min Doors open 30 min before Age 6+ Mobile e-ticket
Out of respect for guests and performers, late entry may not be permitted. We cannot guarantee your original seats after the concert begins.
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Programme +

Here’s the live musical journey you’ll experience — performed by the ensemble in their own arrangements:

Clergy Welcome: Canon Precentor Kathryn Fleming

First Half

  • Arvo Pärt – Peace Upon You, Jerusalem (Choir, unaccompanied)
  • Vocal & Instrumental Section:
  • Tavener – The Child Lived (voice & cello)
  • Tavener – Schuon Lieder No. 3 (voice & piano)
  • Tavener – Mini Song Cycle for Gina (voice & piano)
  • Tavener – Akhmatova Songs No. 3 (voice & cello)
  • Britten – On This Island (selected songs: Now the Leaves are Falling Fast, Seascape, Nocturne)

Interval: 20 minutes

Second Half

  • Britten – Ceremony of Carols –  Choir & Harp
  • Adolphe Adam – O Holy Night – Choir with piano
  • Christmas Carols (Encore)
19:30
A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten and Sacred Music by John Tavener & A...
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