Overview
Performance Time: 2 hours including interval minutes
Tickets available on the door
Access Information
Bath Abbey has a number of facilities available. Please visit the venue website for further information.
A celebration of Purcell’s music performed in the glorious setting of Bath’s newly refurbished Abbey.
Henry Purcell (1659–1695) was one of the greatest English composers. His short but productive career spanned more than 100 songs, a tragic opera, works for the Church, Court and stage as well as for private entertainment. King James II ruled from 1685–1688, when his daughter Mary and her husband William of Orange succeeded him, but during James’ brief reign Purcell wrote works for his coronation and other occasions which are set in this fascinating programme within a wider political and artistic context.
PROGRAMME
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Purcell
Overture to The Tempest in G minor Z 631
Coronation Anthem – I Was Glad
What greater bliss from Welcome Song for King James II (1687) – Sound the trumpet! Beat the drum! Z 335
If ever I more riches did desire Z 544
Coronation Anthem – My heart is inditing Z 30
O sing unto the Lord Z 44
While Thirsis, wrapp’d in downy sleep Z 437 (A Pastoral Coronation Song)
Catch: Full bags, a brisk bottle (No 9) Z 249
Why, why are all the muses mute? Welcome song for King James II (1685)
PERFORMERS
- The Sixteen choir & orchestra
- Harry Christophers conductor