Puccini: Messa di Gloria and Rutter: Magnificat

Anonymous

Harpenden Choral Society is delighted to present a concert bringing together two contrasting yet complementary works. Conducted by Musical Director John Andrews with the King’s Sinfonietta, soloists Susanna MacRae, Lawrence Thackeray, Felix Kemp and organist Richard Gowers.

Puccini’s Messa di Gloria, written when he was just 21, shows the early brilliance of a composer who would later become one of opera’s great storytellers. Full of sweeping melodies, lively choruses and warm, expressive solos, the music is rich, dramatic and instantly appealing.

John Rutter’s Magnificat, first performed in 1990, is bright, rhythmic and uplifting. Inspired by the vibrant festival celebrations in Spanish speaking countries, it sparkles with energy and moments of calm reflection.

Although written more than a century apart, both works bring sacred texts to life with memorable melodies, expressive choral writing and a shared spirit of joy and praise.