Step back
in time to experience a bustling 19th century Parisian
salon during our entertaining summer concert, held on
the eve of Bastille Day. The title of the concert comes
from a collection of salon pieces written by Rossini
after his retirement from opera, which he gave the
self-deprecating and ironic title, Péchés de
vieillesse or Sins of Old Age. These charming pieces
made frequent appearances in Rossin’s salon during his
fashionable Saturday-evening musicales, which he hosted
with his wife. Our concert will be based around the last
of his péchés de vieillesse, the Petite Messe
Solennelle, which clearly demonstrates that the
elderly Rossini had not lost his compositional skill nor
his sense of humour.
We are thrilled to be working with the London-based
group SALON MUSICAL for this concert. Created by pianist
Marc Verter and tenor Daniel Turner, Salon Musical uses
theatre and music to bring the spirit, elegance and
glamour of 19th century Parisian Salons to modern
audiences. Rossini’s Petite Messe will be
interspersed with salon music typical of the period
performed by our outstanding soloists.
In order to create the most authentic atmosphere for the
audience, we’ll be clearing out the nave of St Matthew’s
Church and setting up tables and chairs for the
audience. Each table of 6-7 people will have a tasty
cheese and biscuit platter, and wine glasses will be
provided. Feel free to bring along a bottle and a group
of your friends for what will surely be a unique and
entertaining evening.
The Director of Music, Thomas Moore, is
looking to recruit BOYS from school year 4
to 7 and GIRLS from school year 5 upwards
who are keen to sing and eager to learn.