Wednesday, January 08, 2020

Sarum Vespers for Candlemas Eve in Philadelphia

A unique celebration of the end of the greater Christmas season will take place in Philadelphia on the evening of Saturday, February 1st, solemn choral Vespers according to the medieval Use of Sarum. A choir of master singers from all around the region, under the direction of Peter Carter, will come together to render the sacred music of the psalms in Sarum chant, a collection of polyphonic works set by Thomas Tallis for Candlemas Eve, and a Magnificat written by Robert White during the brief restoration of the Sarum Use under Queen Mary I’s reign. (I have attended a number of liturgies at which Mr Carter has led the choir, and I guarantee that the music will be superb.)

The liturgy will take place at St Patrick’s Church, served by the Dominican Friars, in center city Philadelphia (242 S 20th St). The event is co-sponsored by the Collegium Institute for Catholic Thought & Culture. Please direct all inquiries to James T.M. Griffin at chantphiladelphia@gmail.com; also see the Facebook event page and listing at Eventbrite.

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