A Bach Gala Concert

Performers

Soloists: Anna Dias (soprano) and Rosie McMorrow (mezzo-soprano)
Durham Singers Ensemble on period instruments

J.S. Bach: Magnificat, with popular choruses and arias

The Durham Singers present a joyful celebration of music by Bach, to mark Julian Wright’s farewell from the music directorship of the choir after 15 years of music-making. The choir will be joined, as in previous years, by an outstanding orchestra of period instrumentalists from around the UK.

The concert features the glorious Bach Magnificat alongside popular choruses and arias, including ‘Jesu, joy of man’s desiring’ and ‘Bist du bei mir’.  The hour-long programme is designed to celebrate the Durham Singers’ virtuosity, returning to life after the pandemic; Bach’s inspirational motet ‘Der Geist hilft’ is at the heart of the programme.

The concert continues Durham Singers’ tradition of supporting young soloists, welcoming two postgraduates in their early twenties: soprano Anna Dias, who sings the opening aria from Bach’s cantata ‘Ich habe genug’; and mezzo-soprano Rosie McMorrow, who performs ‘Vergnügte Ruh’.

Three singers currently studying for A-level also join the choir: Martha Cook, who sang the part of the ‘Angel’ in our 2019 Christmas Oratorio, is joined by former head chorister of Durham Cathedral Isabella Theodosius and outstanding young musician Lotta Collin for the trio at the end of the Magnificat.

Julian Wright reflected: ‘After fifteen years of collaborative music-making, I am excited that the choir will be taking new strides under a new music director. I’m thrilled that we are celebrating with Bach, whose music has been a hallmark of our work together. The Magnificat is electrifying, and I can’t think of a more joyful way of saying farewell to the choir!’