Compline: a celebration of the Ascension

The ancient close-of-the-day service of Compline, with plainchant and polyphony. Hosted by Margaret Aagesen Hughes (Soprano) and Clare Bryden (Alto). Featuring musicians Joshua Hamilton and Sarah Rimmington (Violin), Catherine Bradley (Cello), Andrew Maries (Oboe) and John Draisey (Piano), with Judy Burgess providing British Sign Language interpretation.

In 2023, our contemplative journey through Lent included a sequence of anthems by Andrew Wilson – "On the Holy Mountain" – setting a series of five bible readings that journeyed with Moses, Elijah and Jesus over the five mountains of Sinai, Horeb, Tabor and Olivet to Calvary. For 2024, we are honoured that Andrew has added a new movement for the mount of Ascension and re-scored "On the Holy Mountain" for soprano, alto, violins, cello, oboe and piano.

This celebration of Ascension will start with a selection of vocal and instrumental music chosen by us and the musicians, followed by a performance of the full sequence "On the Holy Mountain". The evening will conclude with the service of Compline, as sung in previous years, incorporating an anthem and instrumental music. There will be opportunities for reflection through the simplicity of the setting, the beauty of the music, and the periods of silence.