Visit to Barcelona, May 2009

The Classical choir visited Catalonia during early May with their Musical Director David Wordsworth and Organist Edward Kemp-Luck performing 2 concerts and 1 recital during a 4 day Tour as well as seeing as many of the famous sights as possible.

The Tour lived up to all expectations. The first recital was at Montserrat Basilica where the choir performed Pablo Casals' 'O Vos Omnes'. This piece was apparently especially written for the Choir of the Benedictine Order at Montserrat. Although brief, it was fabulous to sing in such a beautiful and spiritual building where the acoustics were wonderful and with sunny clear weather, everyone enjoyed the superb views.

The next concert at the Basilica de Santa Maria, Igualada was very well received. The capacity audience applauded motets by Victoria and contemporary pieces by Cecilia McDowall 'Ave Maris Stella' and Lauridsen 'O Nata Lux'.

On the penultimate day of the Tour, the choir sang in the 14th century Barcelona Cathedral in the heart of the Barri Götic at the evening mass and then performed a concert including work by Mozart, Buxtehude, Bach and Fauré. The Choir later enjoyed a typical Catalonian meal at El Reloj

Between rehearsals and performing, everyone enjoyed exploring the sights of Barcelona. To quote one of the singers...'this was a brilliant Tour. The high spot was seeing Montserrat and performing in the Basilica. I would love to return'.