Nothing but a small swell from an unseen orchestra serves as introduction to the traditional ‘Vespers’. First led by the priests, and without any accompaniment, hymns of praise in celebration of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary are coupled with ritual and fill the beautiful hall of St Mary’s. The grandeur and mystery of the Catholic church is moving, but the lack of introduction or commentary leaves the uninitiated utterly stumped. Once the choir joins, the Latin songs are filled with harmonies echoed by the strings of the orchestra and the tone lightens. With this pitch-perfect rendition, the prayers wind their way upwards and evoke our minds to do the same.
St Mary’s Metropolitan Cathedral, 6, 13, 20 Aug, 4.00pm (4.50pm), free, fpp212.
tw rating 3/5
[ja]
Sections: by Jennifer Ajderian - ED2011 Music Reviews - tw rating 3/5 | Tags: St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral
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