The Somerset-based chamber choir, Collegium Singers, are presenting a concert of music written in response to the Thirty Years War at St John’s Church, Wellington on Saturday 16 November at 7.30pm.
This war which engulfed Central Europe from 1618 to 1648 was arguably the greatest military catastrophe to befall Europe prior to the two World Wars of the 20th century. The conflict impacted terribly on the lives of ordinary people, especially in Germany, where it brought death, disease, fire and famine in its wake. It is estimated that 8 million people died in the conflict.
The concert presents music written by composers who attempted to express their despair about the turmoil, as well as producing works written to celebrate the peace when it finally came.
Featured composers include Heinrich Schutz, Johann Kindermann, Heinrich Albert and Melchior Franck.
Collegium Singers welcome guest director Gawain Glenton for the concert.
Tickets are available from Taunton Visitor Centre and at the door: £15, £9 students, under 12s free.
Collegium Singers have developed a reputation for performances of interesting programmes spanning time from the eleventh century to the present day. Their concerts have also included several first modern performances of Baroque works as well as projects involving collaborations with musicians from recognised professional period ensembles.
The choir rehearses on Monday evenings (7.30pm – 9.45pm) in St Andrew’s Church, Taunton and are always interested to hear from potential new members who have experience in choral singing, especially in small ensembles.
Collegium Singers will be returning to St John’s Church on Monday 16th December 2019 at 7.30 pm for a Seasonal Celebration entitled ‘The Tree of Life’.