Kingston Choral Society Concert : Venetian Vespers for the Ascension

Venetian Splendour comes to Kingston On 19th November All Saints Church, Kingston, KT1 1JP will resound to the rich polyphony of Claudio Monteverdi and his musical followers when Kingston Choral Society presents Venetian Vespers for the Ascension. The feast of the Ascension (Fèsta de la Sènsa) was, and remains, a major public celebration of Venice’s glory. It culminates in the renewal of the ritual marriage between the city and the sea, as a symbolic gold ring is thrown into the lagoon. This delightful ‘fantasy’ vespers, devised by Andrew Griffiths, brings together music from Monteverdi’s later publications with sumptuous motets by other composers, reflecting both the religious and the political pomp of this lavish festival. The evening offers a rare local opportunity to hear the country’s finest period musicians. The Monteverdi String Band and the English Cornett and Sackbut ensemble will accompany the choir, which is conducted by Andrew Griffiths. The eight soloists include members of the highly acclaimed early music vocal ensemble, Stile Antico. Programme: Andrea Gabrieli:Vieni,vieni Himeneo Croce: Deus in adiutorium Monteverdi: Dixit Dominus II Croce: Percussit Saul Monteverdi: Confitebor III Monteverdi: Beatus vir Giovanni Gabrieli: Omnes Gentes Giovanni Gabrieli: Udite, chiari e generosi figli Monteverdi: Laudate pueri I Monteverdi: Laudate Dominum III Degli Grifoni/Vecchi: Salutis humanae Sator Monteverdi: Magnificat Primo Choir: Kingston Choral Society Orchestra: The Monteverdi String Band and the English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble Soloists: Helen Ashby, Kate Ashby (soprano), Emma Ashby, Carla Curran (alto), Jonathan Hanley, Benedict Hymas (tenor), James Arthur, Jimmy Holliday (bass). Conductor: Andrew Griffiths