On a balmy summer evening in Exmouth, the stunning setting of Holy Trinity Church provides the perfect backdrop for a vibrant celebration of choral music with a jazz-inspired twist. The choir is joined by a superb jazz trio: Andrew Downton (piano); Phil Williams (bass); and Ryan Carter (drums). Under the expert direction of Stephen Tanner, the programme brims with energy and warmth, bringing irresistible rhythm and colour to an evening of captivating music.
At its heart is Then Sing We All by Iain Farrington, a sparkling, celebratory work that captures the exhilaration and shared joy of singing together. The evening also features A Little Jazz Mass by Bob Chilcott, a brilliant and imaginative fusion of the Latin Missa Brevis with the vibrant spirit of New Orleans jazz, composed for the Crescent City Choral Festival in 2004.
Adding to the sense of occasion are three first performances by Stephen Tanner: fresh and expressive jazz settings of Psalms 23 and 150, alongside an intriguing reimagining of the well-known Minuets in G major and G minor from the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, newly shaped into the inventive 4 5 4 Minuet.
Rich harmonies, infectious rhythms and radiant choral sound combine to create an evening of music that is both uplifting and unforgettable. The perfect soundtrack to a summer’s night!