The sacred meets the operatic in this programme of music from Italy, featuring works by Verdi and Puccini. Verdi’s simple and poignant Pater Noster for unaccompanied choir is paired with Puccini’s Messa di Gloria, which although in the form of a conventional Mass is unashamedly operatic in style, anticipating the later works for which Puccini is best known. The work also provides a platform for our two distinguished soloists, both members of the BBC Singers, Peter Davoren and Jimmy Holliday. Philip Scriven will accompany on the organ.

In addition, Peter will sing Nessun Dorma from Puccini’s opera Turandot, and Jimmy will perform Filippo’s aria, Ella giammai m’amo, from Verdi’s Don Carlos. As Puccini took his inspiration from Verdi, the master equally of opera and sacred music, there is a fine symmetry to this concert, which will be conducted by Richard Pearce.