We are delighted that the Choristers’ new video recording of Benjamin Britten’s wonderful A Ceremony of Carols has finally been released. You can watch the recording above and we strongly recommend that you take the 20 minutes or so to relish this consummate performance of this exquisite seasonal work and enjoy a moment of calm in this often all-too-busy season!
The recording was made earlier this year with harpist Olivia Jageurs, and the then Acting Director of Music, Alexander Hamilton. Alexander Hamilton said:
“One of the joys of a cathedral choir is that it is ever-evolving, as probationers begin their journey and senior choristers move on, often after many years of dedicated service. At this point in the summer term with just a few weeks to go before the end of the Cathedral Choir year, this always feels like the point when the Choristers are at the top of their game.
“I wanted to plan a recording project to capture this transient moment, before the Choir disperse for the summer and a new chapter begins in September. Over the past three evenings, the Choristers have worked incredibly hard recording Britten’s magical A Ceremony of Carols, a piece which they adore.Recording both audio and video, and trying to capture the essence of live performance is a demanding process, but every Chorister rose to the challenge and gave their all.
“It has been a huge pleasure to work with harpist Olivia Jageurs, producer Barry Rose, and sound engineer David Hinitt to create something together which I know will be very special indeed.”
The Choristers’ annual performance around Candlemas of this special piece has become a much-loved fixture in the Cathedral calendar, supporting the work of the Trust. The Choristers next concert performance of A Ceremony of Carols will be on Saturday 1 February 2025. You can book tickets for this live performance via the button below.
