The Three Choirs Festival at 300 Episode 2 of 5: Hereford
Today Donald Macleod visits Hereford, the first stop on his tour of the three cities of Hereford, Gloucester and Worcester that make up the musical triangle of the Three Choirs Festival - a unique institution that has been at the heart of British musical life for three centuries.
The role of hosting the festival is passed each year between the three cities, and the Director of Music at the cathedral of the festival's 'home' city therefore takes on the artistic directorship of the festival. Geraint Bowen, Director of Music at Hereford Cathedral, is artistic director of this year's festival; Donald Macleod talks to him about how this unique arrangement works in practice, and why it has been central to the festival's long-term wellbeing.
Donald also visits Anthony Boden, historian of the Three Choirs Festival, about the huge influence of SS Wesley on British choral music in the 19th century.
00:01 William Byrd Sing Joyfully Unto God For 6 Voices Choir: Hereford Cathedral Choir Conductor: Geraint Bowen
00:07 Frederick Delius Dance Rhapsody No. 1 Rt.6.18 Orchestra: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Conductor: Sir Thomas Beecham
00:21 Samuel Sebastian Wesley O Give Thanks unto the Lord Performer: James McVinnie Choir: Choir of Clare College, Cambridge Director: Christopher Robinson Singer: Philippa Boyle
00:34 Samuel Sebastian Wesley Blessed Be The God And Father - Verse Anthem For Soprano, Chorus [satb] & Organ Performer: James McVinnie Choir: Clare College Cambridge Choir Conductor: Christopher Robinson Singer: Philippa Boyle
00:35 Gerald Finzi Dies Natalis Op.8 For Voice And String Orchestra Performer: English Chamber Orchestra Singer: Wilfred Brown Conductor: Christopher Finzi
First broadcast: 28 Jul 2015 (b063djzd) http://vk.com/wall-71199334_94