Weston Choral - Vivaldi Gloria & Rutter Magnificat

A Glorious Winter Afternoon with Weston ChoralWeston Choral invites audiences to begin the festive season in glorious musical style with a Winter Concert filled with brilliance, warmth and celebration.On Saturday 5 December at 3.00pm, the choir returns to the beautiful surroundings of All Saints Church, Weston-super-Mare, for a programme bringing together two joyful choral masterpieces: Antonio Vivaldi's Gloria and John Rutter's Magnificat.Separated by almost three centuries, these two works share an irresistible sense of exuberance.

Both are full of colour, contrast and memorable melody, making them an ideal pairing for an uplifting winter afternoon.Vivaldi's Gloria is one of the best-loved works in the choral repertoire.

Written in Venice in the early eighteenth century, it bursts into life with the exhilarating opening cry of Gloria in excelsis Deo - "Glory to God in the highest".

From its jubilant choruses to moments of tenderness and contemplation, the work shows Vivaldi at his most inventive and immediately appealing.Its twelve contrasting movements take the listener on a journey from splendour and celebration to quiet reflection before building once again towards a triumphant conclusion.

It is music that seems to sparkle - and more than 300 years after it was written, its energy remains wonderfully infectious.The other half of the programme brings us to the twentieth century and the music of one of Britain's most popular contemporary composers, John Rutter.Rutter's Magnificat was inspired by the ancient song of Mary - "My soul doth magnify the Lord" - but also by the composer's experience of the colourful festivals held in honour of the Virgin Mary in countries including Spain, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The result is a work overflowing with rhythmic vitality, radiant harmonies and lyrical beauty.At times exuberant and almost dance-like, at others serene and deeply reflective, Rutter's setting combines the grandeur of the traditional sacred choral repertoire with his unmistakable gift for melody.

It is music with a wonderfully festive spirit and provides a magnificent counterpart to Vivaldi's Gloria.Weston Choral will be joined by two distinguished soloists.Soprano Freya Holliman returns to perform with the choir, bringing her expressive voice to some of the programme's most beautiful solo passages.Alongside her will be mezzo-soprano Margaret Hopes, who has a particularly special connection with the choir as President of Weston Choral.

Her appearance as soloist promises to add an especially warm and personal dimension to the afternoon.Completing the musical line-up is Weston Choral's well-known and much-loved accompanist, Richard Lennox, whose musicianship, versatility and infectious enthusiasm have made him such a valued and familiar presence at the choir's concerts.The setting could hardly be more appropriate.

With its fine acoustic and impressive architecture, All Saints Church provides an atmospheric home for large-scale choral music, allowing both the brilliance of Vivaldi and the rich colours of Rutter to fill the building.Taking place at 3.00pm on a December afternoon, the concert also offers the perfect opportunity to step away from the seasonal rush for a while and simply enjoy the pleasure of live music.Two composers.

Two magnificent settings of words of praise.

One afternoon of glorious choral music.Whether you are a longstanding supporter of Weston Choral, a lover of classical music, or simply looking for a memorable way to welcome the festive season, this promises to be a concert not to miss.Public sale begins on 27th October 2026 - We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment as our winter concerts sell out quickly.