Sunday 7 July, 3.00pm
An afternoon of songs by Elgar, Holst/Wolfe, Delius, and Fauré; with a world première of Without Words by Stephen Dickinson. Introductory talk on the Holst/Wolfe work by Philippa Tudor CBE.
Sarah Leonard’s unique voice and unrivalled musicianship have led to a varied and distinguished career spanning four decades, becoming a leading exponent of the British song repertoire. Stephen Dickinson, soloist, accompanist, chamber musician, musical director and composer, is no stranger to Thaxted audiences, having played in a programme of Cole Porter songs last year, and Stephen Sondheim songs in 2022.
There will be an introductory talk by Holst specialist Philippa Tudor on the intriguing origins of Holst’s Twelve Humbert Wolfe Songs, which form part of this performance. Gustav Holst wrote the song cycle for the spectacular 1929 Paris housewarming party of Australian music-lover and patron Louise Dyer. This talk will explore how the unlikely working relationship between the shy composer and the socialite founder of the Oiseau-Lyre music publishers encouraged him to start composing again.
Thaxted Festival’s commitment to premiering new work is continued with the first performance of Stephen Dickinson’s vocalise for soprano and piano, Without Words.
Venue: United Reformed Church, Bolford Street, Thaxted
Tickets £22. Age 30 and under: £10. Unreserved seating.