Gloucester Choral Society
Martin Rogers Brass Ensemble
Jonathan Hope organ
Adrian Partington conductor

Gloucester Choral Society presents Messe en l’honeur du Saint-Sacrement (Mass in honour of the Blessed Sacrament) composed in 1945 by the Belgian Joseph Jungen in memory of his brother, Alphonse. He provides a most attractive setting of the Latin Mass ordinary scored for chorus, brass band and organ, all led by our acclaimed choral and orchestral director, Adrian Partington.

During the World War II occupation Jungen’s brother, who was a canon at Liège Cathedral, died suddenly. Further trauma followed as his son, Jacques was arrested and detained by the Gestapo. It was only upon his release in March 1945 that Jongen felt able to begin to write the mass in dedication to Alphonse. It is full of gloriously diverse textures, at times reflective then reaching thrilling crescendos with brass and voice in full flow. It is not often performed but it is marvellous! Come, see and hear for yourself.

The association of the piece with the end of World War II oppression makes it a most apposite selection for a remembrance weekend.

This varied programme is completed with sets of motets by composers from different eras. Three very popular motets by Austrian composer, Josef Anton Bruckner (1824-1896), Ave Maria, Locus Iste and Ecce Sacerdos Magnus are presented alongside three beautiful motets by Italian composer Giovanni Gabrieli (1557-1612), Jubilate Deo, O Domine Jesu Christe and Exultet Iam Angelica .

It promises to be a most thrilling and enjoyable listening experience and an opportunity for reflection and remembrance.