Hymnus Paschalis

Description

This singular work was originally written for the Three Choirs Festival in Worcester in 1995. The version published here is for choir and organ, but was originally performed in a version for the choir and orchestra. The work was inspired by the discovery of a beautiful chant tune,”Ad Coenam Agni Providi”. This tune pervades the entire work, as does “Victimae Paschali” and two hymn tunes: ” Rockingham” and “Victory”. The reviews of the premiere performance were unanimous in their praise: “This is most assuredly among the finest of contemporary choral compositions.” (Musical Opinion) “Hymnus Paschalis”requires choral forces (dividing into three choirs at one point) of great accomplishment and skill as well as a virtuoso organist.