Concerts & events archive 2006

Just as Tolkien in the Lord of the Rings saw our cultural roots mirrored in the language of the Shire, so Dr Andrei Pidkivka, brilliant woodwind player and articulate speaker, sees our European music growing out of his own Carpathian culture.

A fascinating exploration of the folk music of Eastern Europe, weaving the tales of the Carpathian mountains into the voice of his shepherd flutes.

Fiori Musicali – orchestra in residence at the festival – open a window on the brilliant musical world of mid 18thcentury Milan, Naples and Salzburg.

They are joined by guest artists Maggie Cole fortepiano and Grace Davidson soprano to bring alive the drama and passion of Mozart’s music.

"Cole is...a graceful, vital musician with an elegant technique and a razor-sharp feeling for phrasing and accent" The New York Times

Mozart - Divertimento in F
Moxart - Exsultate Jubilate
Leo - Salve Regina
Mozart - Piano concerto in E flat, K271

In the 1680s and 90s St Cecilia's Day was celebrated at St Bride's, Fleet Street with a special choral service, after which the congregation strolled up Ludgate Hill for further music and then banqueting at Stationers' Hall.

Continuing the historic ties, a procession will leave St Bride's at the end of this traditional language festal Eucharist, and wend its way up to the Hall for a champagne brunch.

Kodály - Missa Brevis
Moxart - Laudate Dominum

Pop the corks and join festival-goers for Sunday champagne brunch with dazzling folk musicians Andrei Pidkivka, Dezider Oláh and friends – back for the 2006 Festival by popular demand.

Champagne on arrival and bistro-style seating for the concert. Brunch follows during the extended interval.

The glories of Byrd’s great Elizabethan Latin masses contrast with sublime music for unaccompanied cello, performed by Fiori Musicali’s star cellist Jennifer Morsches.

A feast of atmospheric music resounding through the oak-panelled walls of the Stationers’ ancient hall rounds off the 2006 Festival.

“Penelope Rapson . . . drew out that bright exuberance to the music that makes their concerts such a pleasure.” Daily Express

“thoroughly attractive performances” The Financial Times

Bach - Suite for unaccompanied cello in D minor
Byrd - Mass for four voices
Bach - Suite for unaccompanied cello in E flat
Byrd - Mass for five voices