Elgar’s The Kingdom

City of Bristol Choir
Exultate Singers
City of Bristol Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by David Ogden

Lisa Milne Soprano
Emily Bauer Jones Contralto
Andrew Staples Tenor
Martin Le Poidevin Baritone

As a finale to their highly successful Elgar Festival 2007, City of Bristol Choir and Exultate Singers perform The Kingdom, arguably Elgar’s greatest choral work.

The Kingdom tells the story of the foundation of the Christian church through the events of the Last Supper and Pentecost in music that is vigorous and direct with soaring melodies and large, exciting choruses.  The events are dramatically conveyed in some of the most powerful and inspiring music Elgar ever wrote; some experts (notably Adrian Boult) prize it higher even than Dream of Gerontius.

A fabulous line up of soloists includes Welsh National Opera’s star soprano, Lisa Milne, a singer who has been making waves on concert and operatic stages worldwide.  A master communicator with striking stage presence, her performances have been described as having “the most ravishing phrasing and depth, full of yearning and fire with a spotless coloratura.”

One of the most moving parts of the work is the soprano aria  The sun goeth down, in which Mary meditates on the wonders she has witnessed. The passage is among the most haunting and touching of all Elgar’s solo works. Given on Remembrance Sunday, this performance will be particularly poignant.

City of Bristol Choir and Exultate Singers make up a chorus of 130 singers, and they will be joined by City of Bristol Symphony Orchestra, conducted by David Ogden. Come and join them as they conclude the 150th anniversary celebrations for England’s
best-loved and most celebrated composer.

Tickets £18, £15, £12 (£10 under 18s). 0117 922 3686. 10% discount off a group booking of 10 or more tickets.
Book online at www.elgar2007.com, buy in person at the Colston Hall or call the box office on 0117 922 3686