The Bach Choir: The Dream of Gerontius

The Bach Choir and the Philharmonia Orchestra join forces for Elgar’s choral masterpiece.

Cardinal Newman’s poem The Dream of Gerontius tells the story of the end of an old man’s life and his soul’s subsequent journey towards God. The poem was a well-known and much-loved work in its own right by the time Elgar came to set it to music in 1900. From it he created his greatest choral work – if not the greatest by any English composer.

Writing for two choirs, orchestra, organ and soloists, Elgar composed music that seemed to come from the depths of his own soul. Acclaimed tenor Daniel Norman sings the moving title role, Jennifer Johnston sings the role of the Angel who supports him on his journey, and Roderick Williams sings the role of the Priest.

To open the evening, The Bach Choir has commissioned a new work from Roderick Williams. It acts as a prelude to Elgar’s work, considering what it is to wait alongside someone in their final moments. Williams is one of the country’s best-loved singers, chosen by King Charles III to perform at the Coronation. He frequently appears with The Bach Choir as a soloist, making him well placed to get the best out of this 200-strong ensemble.

This concert is part of David Hill’s 25th season as Musical Director of The Bach Choir. They and the Philharmonia Orchestra are regular partners, filling the Royal Festival Hall with their ‘electrifying… inspirational music making’ (Bachtrack).