A little piece of heaven and one of the greatest English choral pieces ever composed. Written as an outpouring of grief after the death of his nine-year-old son, the heart-breakingly beautiful Hymnus Paradisi gives a deeply personal voice to Howells’ pain and is powerfully affecting. Grief turns to wonder in Bliss’ dramatic Mary of Magdala as Mary finally recognises and kneels in joy before the risen Christ in the Easter Garden. This emotionally charged concert is full of beauty and will leave you profoundly moved.

Rebecca Hardwick soprano
Sarah Connolly mezzo-soprano
Michael Bell tenor
Malachy Frame baritone

Three Choirs Festival Chorus
Philharmonia Orchestra
Adrian Partington conductor

Howells Paradise Rondel
Bliss Mary of Magdala
Howells Hymnus Paradisi