St - Sulpice Organ, Paris

The Messe solemnelle (Solemn Mass) is a mass by the French composer Louis Vierne. He composed it in 1899 and it was scored for choir and two organs. It was published in 1900 before it was first performed at Saint - Sulpice in Paris in 1901. Although scored for two pipe organs, it was later adapted for a single organ as most churches could not provide two such instruments.

The mass is structured in five movements, omitting a Credo. Adding more development of themes and "imaginative expression", Vierne uses repeated rhythmic figures in the accompaniment. 

The concert also includes the haunting drama of Arvo Pärt's Magnificat, Pierre de la Rue's beautiful O Salutaris Hostia and Poulenc's Timor et Tremor.

Academy Singers welcome the return of our founding director, Gavin Tipping, who will accompany us on the organ as part of our 30th anniversary celebrations.

 Afternoon tea will be served after the concert. All are welcome.