The programme opens with Mozart’s gentle round Dona Nobis Pacem, before Solway Singers present Stanford’s The Blue Bird, with its poised, floating soprano line, and Gjeilo’s reflective The Ground. They also offer the first set of Shearing’s Songs and Sonnets, where Shakespeare’s words are treated with lightness, rhythmic ease and affectionate detail. Sempre Amabile bring a contrasting palette, from the lyrical warmth of Childs’ Song of Ruth to the expressive sweep of Flight, and the direct, clear voiced writing of What Happens When a Woman.

After the interval, Sempre Amabile return with Chilcott’s Look to This Day, Maconchy’s distinctive harmonic language, and a group of traditional songs arranged by Michael Neaum. Solway Singers then offer Whitacre’s Lux Aurumque and the second half of Shearing’s Shakespeare settings, before performing Ēšenvalds’ Northern Lights, where tuned wine glasses and chime bars create the soft, shimmering sonority that evokes the quiet radiance of the aurora. The concert concludes with both choirs joining together in Why We Sing.

This event takes place at St Cuthbert’s Church and starts at 7.30pm.

We look forward to welcoming you.