Songs of Farewell

Saturday 8th November, 2025 at 7:30pm
 St Paul's Church, Winchester SO22 5AB
£18 (age 21 and under £10)


Christmas with Southern Voices
 

A word from our Musical Director...

“There is an old belief
That on some solemn shore
Beyond the sphere of grief
Dear friends shall meet once more”

 -- John Gibson Lockhart – Songs of Farewell No. 4

Prior to the First World War, Parry had long been a fan of Germany and German culture. He was therefore deeply troubled by war with the Kaiser and the catastrophic loss of so many of his pupils in action. The Songs of Farewell focus this immense, personal grief on sublime settings of the texts taking the listener through sumptuous, celestial clouds all the way to the pure, simplicity of the closing setting of Psalm 39.

Ian Venables’ Requiem offers a perfect accompaniment to the Songs of Farewell. Venables, chiefly known as a composer of songs, brings a lyricism and colour which is reminiscent of Durufle and also Herbert Howells. This performance offers a rare treat to hear this magnificent piece with its atmospheric, and at times monumental, organ accompaniment.

Conductor: Jamal Sutton
 

Programme:


To include:
  • Hubery Parry - Songs of Farewell
  • Ian Venables - Requiem
The rest of the programme is to be announced.