GOD IS GONE UP
Saturday 5th April 2025 at 7:30 pm
St John-in-Bedwardine
1A Bromyard Road,
St. Johns,
WORCESTER. WR2 5BS
Tickets: £18, Concessions: £16, Students: free, under 18s accompanied by an adult: free,
Tickets are available from Worcester Tourist Information Centre, The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester. WR1 2EY.
Telephone: 01905 726311, email:tourism@worcester.gov.uk
and Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com
God is Gone Up is more than just a concert; it celebrates the profound and lasting impact these British composers have had on the classical and continue to have music landscape. Their works, from the introspective to the grandiose and patriotic, offer a rich tapestry of the British musical tradition. You will experience the timeless beauty and emotional depth of Finzi, Stanford, Walton, and Parry, and appreciate the unique contributions each made to the world of music.
The programme will be:
Jubilate – Walton
Missa Brevis – Walton
Kyrie
Sanctus/Benedictus
Agnus
Gloria
Organ solo: Intrada (Dies Natalis) – Finzi arr. R. Gower
Lo, the full final sacrifice – Finzi
INTERVAL
God is gone up – Finzi
Set me as a seal – Walton
Organ solo: Stanford
For Lo! I raise up – Stanford
Songs of Farewell – Parry
My soul, there is a country
I know my soul hath power
Never weather-beaten sail
There is an old belief
Blest pair of Sirens – Parry
The concert “God is Gone Up” celebrates the rich musical heritage of British composers from the late 19th century to the1980s.
- Gerald Finzi: Gerald Finzi (1901-1956) is known for his lyrical and emotive music, often inspired by English poetry. His choral piece “God is Gone Up” exemplifies his ability to blend poignant text with transcendent music, creating a deeply spiritual experience.
- Charles Villiers Stanford: Charles Villiers Stanford (1852-1924) played a crucial role in the renaissance of British music in the late 19th century. His compositions, characterized by robust melodies and rich harmonies, and his teaching at the Royal College of Music significantly influenced the next generation of British composers.
- William Walton and Hubert Parry: William Walton (1902-1983) brought modern sensibility to British music with his rhythmic vitality and bold orchestration, while Hubert Parry (1848-1918) made significant contributions to English choral and orchestral music, with works like “Jerusalem” reflecting national pride.
