In the Last Days

'From the Beginning of the World was commissioned by the Cardinall’s Musick and premiered at Cadogan Hall on the 20th July 2015 in the first of the 2015 BBC Proms Chamber Music Concerts. The concert launched The Tallis Edition a new project by the ensemble with an aim to throw new light on Tallis’s work and part of the commission brief was that my new piece should be a homage to this great English polyphonist. I spent several weeks in libraries attempting to find a suitable text eventually settling on excerpts from Tycho Brahe’s German Treatise on the Great Comet of 1577. Whether Tallis knew about the comet is unknown of course but this seismic event to me seemed emblematic of all the great changes that occurred during his lifetime in areas such as religion the calendar and time-keeping (finding out that Tallis lived out his last days in Greenwich was an extra bonus). The text also seems to speak to contemporary times: whilst Brahe may have thought the comet’s birth would cause the sun to ‘bring unnatural heat’ nowadays we know that its ‘venom [will be] spewed over the lands’ due to mankind’s continued pillaging of the earth’s natural resources. Yet our political ‘pseudo prophets’ prefer to distract us with an austerity delusion rather than confront a reality perpetuated by certain corporations for whom ‘seek[ing] their own honour’ is of primary value. The music itself is very influenced by Tallis and canons and imitation abound. During my time as a ‘cellist at the Yehudi Menuhin School I performed Ralph Vaughan Williams’s Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis many times and so From the Beginning of the World which also uses Tallis’s Third Mode Melody from the English Hymnal is really a homage to both composers.' - Cheryl Frances-Hoad.

This mournful contemplative anthem from Joseph and Pamela Martin's cantata Song of the Shadows sets the stage for the last days of Jesus's time on earth. Come to the Shadows is a solemn remembrance of Christ's finaldays from the waving of the palms through the agony of Calvary. Written for a service of darkness during Holy Week this moving octavo is especially effective for Maundy Thursday or Good Friday services.

Edizione critica a cura di Alessandro Borin - Antonio Moccia (testi in italiano e inglese). Par ANTONIO VIVALDI. 'With Il Teuzzone, RV 736, the collected edition of operas by Antonio Vivaldi gains a new volume that brings to completion the pair of operas written by the ?Red Priest? for Mantua. Premiered during the last days of 1718, the opera preceded by a few months the production of Tito Manlio, RV 738 (PR 1411). This edition of Teuzzone, the first in modern times, is based on the two complete sources to have survived: a copy originating from the composer?s own archive (Biblioteca Nazionale Universitaria di Torino, Raccolta Mauro Foà 33) and the one today housed in Berlin (Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin ? Preussischer Kulturbesitz, Musikabteilung, N. Mus, ms. 125), which was made for the Mantuan production. Additionally, numerous secondary sources have been collated. An appendix to the volume contains the musical materials discarded by Vivaldi during the period preceding the opera?s premiere. The supporting texts for the edition report on new findings that have emerged from archival and documentary research. It has been established, for instance, that the aria Tu, mio vezzoso (I.03) is a borrowing from Alessandro Severo by Antonio Lotti, while the aria Tornerò, pupille belle (II.02) is a reworking of Nelle mie selve natie, an aria in Scanderbeg, RV 732. These examples reveal the pasticcio-like nature of this Vivaldi opera. In the section concerned with the description of the sources, which includes a meticulous codicological examination of the source in Turin, a bold attempt has been made to reconstruct the phases that the composition of Vivaldi?s opera underwent, an operation that sheds light on the inner workings of Vivaldi?s atelier. In addition, the close relationship of this score to a work with the same title staged in Turin with music by G. Casanova and A. S. Fiorè is analysed. '/ Répertoire / Chant et Orchestre

A sacred cantata recalling some of the incidents in the last days of the Saviour's life on earth. Scored for tenor and baritone soli and SATB chorus interspersed with hymns to be sung by the congregation.Words written and arranged by Shapcott Wensley. Revised by Michael Pilkington.

Edizione critica a cura di Alessandro Borin - Antonio Moccia (testi in italiano e inglese). With Il Teuzzone, RV 736, the collected edition of operas by Antonio Vivaldi gains a new volume that brings to completion the pair of operas written by the ?Red Priest? for Mantua. Premiered during the last days of 1718, the opera preceded by a few months the production of Tito Manlio, RV 738 (PR 1411). This edition of Teuzzone, the first in modern times, is based on the two complete sources to have survived: a copy originating from the composer?s own archive (Biblioteca Nazionale Universitaria di Torino, Raccolta Mauro Fo 33) and the one today housed in Berlin (Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin Preussischer Kulturbesitz, Musikabteilung, N. Mus, ms. 125), which was made for the Mantuan production. Additionally, numerous secondary sources have been collated. An appendix to the volume contains the musical materials discarded by Vivaldi during the period preceding the opera?s premiere. The supporting texts for the edition report on new findings that have emerged from archival and documentary research. It has been established, for instance, that the aria Tu, mio vezzoso (I.03) is a borrowing from Alessandro Severo by Antonio Lotti, while the aria Tornerò, pupille belle (II.02) is a reworking of Nelle mie selve natie, an aria in Scanderbeg, RV 732. These examples reveal the pasticcio-like nature of this Vivaldi opera. In the section concerned with the description of the sources, which includes a meticulous codicological examination of the source in Turin, a bold attempt has been made to reconstruct the phases that the composition of Vivaldi?s opera underwent, an operation that sheds light on the inner workings of Vivaldi?s atelier. In addition, the close relationship of this score to a work with the same title staged in Turin with music by G. Casanova and A. S. Fiorè is analysed.

The creative team that brought you The Lenten Sketches and Covenant of Grace now present a work filled with intensity and passion. In this work the silent witnesses to the last days of Christ speak in 5 soliloquies that testify to the timeless message of grace. These monologues are followed by beautiful musical moments that present new anthems as well as traditional Lenten hymns. This work designed primarily for Holy Week performance incorporates simple symbols (Palms Chalice Robe Crown of Thorns and Cross) to be presented as the work unfolds. Whispers of the Passion is supported by a complete line of products that will add a variety of options for churches of any size. Witha 30-35 minute performance time this flexible work can be integrated into a regular service or can even be done progressively over the weeks leading up to Good Friday. Reflect upon the gift of grace and the price of redemption as you experience the emotion of this inspired cantata.

The creative team that brought you The Lenten Sketches and Covenant of Grace now present a work filled with intensity and passion. In this work the silent witnesses to the last days of Christ speak in 5 soliloquiesthat testify to the timeless message of grace. These monologues are followed by beautiful musical moments that present new anthems as well as traditional Lenten hymns. This work designed primarily for Holy Week performanceincorporates simple symbols (Palms Chalice Robe Crown of Thorns and Cross) to be presented as the work unfolds.Whispers of the Passion is supported by a complete line of products that will add a variety ofoptions for churches of any size. With a 30-35 minute length of performance this flexible work can be integrated into a regular service or can even be done progressively over the weeks leading up to Good Friday. Reflect upon thegift of grace and the price of redemption as you experience the emotion of this inspired cantata.

Ed. critica A. Borin - A. Moccia - Riduzione per canto e pianoforte. With Il Teuzzone, RV 736, the collected edition of operas by Antonio Vivaldi gains a new volume that brings to completion the pair of operas written by the ?Red Priest? for Mantua. Premiered during the last days of 1718, the opera preceded by a few months the production of Tito Manlio, RV 738 (PR 1411). This edition of Teuzzone, the first in modern times, is based on the two complete sources to have survived: a copy originating from the composer?s own archive (Biblioteca Nazionale Universitaria di Torino, Raccolta Mauro Foà 33) and the one today housed in Berlin (Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin ? Preussischer Kulturbesitz, Musikabteilung, N. Mus, ms. 125), which was made for the Mantuan production. Additionally, numerous secondary sources have been collated. An appendix to the volume contains the musical materials discarded by Vivaldi during the period preceding the opera?s premiere. The supporting texts for the edition report on new findings that have emerged from archival and documentary research. It has been established, for instance, that the aria Tu, mio vezzoso (I.03) is a borrowing from Alessandro Severo by Antonio Lotti, while the aria Tornerò, pupille belle (II.02) is a reworking of Nelle mie selve natie, an aria in Scanderbeg, RV 732. These examples reveal the pasticcio-like nature of this Vivaldi opera. In the section concerned with the description of the sources, which includes a meticulous codicological examination of the source in Turin, a bold attempt has been made to reconstruct the phases that the composition of Vivaldi?s opera underwent, an operation that sheds light on the inner workings of Vivaldi?s atelier. In addition, the close relationship of this score to a work with the same title staged in Turin with music by G. Casanova and A. S. Fiorè is analysed.

Poignant text; lots of unison; easy to learn; optional flute and instrumental parts to supplement piano“Where Are the Shepherds Now?” asks some difficult questions about the faithfulness of those closest toChrist during his last days – about us. The melody is tender and soothing juxtaposed masterfully with the powerful text. The contrast between words and melody is quite poignant. An excellent choice for Holy Week meditation.

A Cantata of Hope and Peace-This service in song is a contemplation of the hope we find in Christ. Incorporating new original anthems and fresh treatments of time-honored hymns and traditional sacred songs this work reflects upon the ministry and passion of Christs last days.The narration includes scriptures of assurance and words of comfort and peace. The music is written in an expressive melodic style bringing a gentle beauty that will touch all who experience it. Supported by two orchestration choices and otherhelpful companion products this 40 minute work is ideal for Lenten or Holy Week worship gatherings. Consider this musical journey of faith and discover a place of refuge in Gods unfailing love and His sanctuary of grace. Moving!

Preview Pak (Book/CD)-The musical is narrated by Luke as he writes of Jesus's last days on earth. Highly effective when presented by choir and narrator but naturally suited for full staging. It may be performed in its entirety or in segments atseveral services. The words and music of this new Pepper Choplin cantata are very dynamic and will immerse the audience in the passion and intensity of the major events of Holy Week. As the character of Luke is deeply touched bythe story he is recording the choir and soloists assume his role in the drama. Once Upon a Tree was written for Pepper's own church Greystone Baptist Church in Raleigh North Carolina. The choir rehearsed the musical asit was being written and played a special role as the work was formed and perfected. It will be a profoundly moving experience for choirs and congregations.

Selected and edited by Hans Mersmann. Covers the composer's entire life from his childhood travels to his last days. Includes several letters to and from his father.