Artists

David Hill – conductor
Benjamin Hulett – tenor
Philip Scriven – organ
The Bach Choir

Programme

Boulanger Vieille Prière Bouddhique: Prière quotidienne pour tout l’univers Listen

Debussy Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune Listen

Poulenc Organ Concerto Listen

— Interval —

Gabriel Jackson The World Imagined

We join forces with The Bach Choir in music that expresses both spirituality and sensuality.

In 1917 musical prodigy Lili Boulanger set a Buddhist prayer: “Let everything that breathes… all men and all women… be able to move freely, each in the path destined for them.” It’s an apt and moving counterpart to Gabriel Jackson’s The World Imagined. Jackson, one of today’s foremost choral composers, sets poems spanning centuries and continents. Their common theme, he explains, is “the divine in everything around us.” At its 2021 premiere, the work was acclaimed for its rich imagery, eloquent vocal writing and inventive orchestral textures.

Debussy’s evocation of a faun enjoying a sun-dappled afternoon is one of the most sensual pieces in the orchestral repertoire. Its dreamy, improvisatory flute melodies transport us to a world of fantasy and pleasure.

Poulenc’s single-movement Organ Concerto is scored for organ, strings and timpani. Influenced by Baroque organ music, Poulenc’s Catholic faith, and the gathering storm clouds of the Second World War, it’s full of drama and contrasting emotions. At the console of the magnificent Royal Festival Hall organ is Philip Scriven, who combines his role as Assistant Conductor of The Bach Choir with an international career as a soloist.

Need to know

Prices & Discounts

£10 – £65

Multi-buy offer available; under-18s and concessions discounts available; discounted tickets for students via Student Pulse (limited availability)

Running time:

1 hr 40 mins, including a 20 minute interval

Recommended age

From 7+

Programme notes

Free printed programmes will be available at the venue. Digital programme notes available a week before the event.

Box office

Philharmonia Box Office: 0800 652 6717
Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm

Venue

Royal Festival Hall

Royal Festival Hall

Southbank Centre
Belvedere Road
London
SE1 8XX

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