The Gesualdo Six: Lux Aeterna

The Gesualdo Six at St James

The Gesualdo Six present a poignant, hopeful sequence of sacred music containing radiant choral writing from across the centuries. Highlights include Tallis’ polyphonic masterpiece, In jejunio et fletu, alongside the astonishing harmonies of Gesualdo in Plange quasi virgo. Both composers beautifully capture a sense of vulnerability in their works, asking for forgiveness and protection. From more recent times, there is the effortless poetic settings of Joanna Marsh and Richard Rodney Bennett, who call on us to enjoy all that life has to offer. Elsewhere, pieces by Tavener and Morales present a series of questions, seeking reassurance. If you like, this is an uplifting sequence for the souls of the departed, to be heard by those who remember them.

“With the voices soaring and interweaving high above us, it occurred to me that it was no wonder that in centuries past, congregations sitting in the first gothic cathedrals believed in angels.” 

Hemispheres Sunday 21 June – 5pm