St Davids Cathedral Festival 2024: A harmonious celebration
EVERY SPRING, the majestic St Davids Cathedral, nestled in the heart of Wales, welcomes an eclectic array of world- class musicians for its renowned festival.
This year, from the 24th to the 26th of May, the hallowed halls of the cathedral will resonate with the sounds of orchestral classics, Celtic folk tunes, and much more, promising a delightful experience for music enthusiasts of all ages.
The St Davids Cathedral Festival has earned a reputation for seamlessly blending superb musical performances with the breathtaking backdrop of its 12th- century Nave. With its awe- inspiring
Irish oak ceiling and dramatic organ screen, the cathedral provides a setting unlike any other, transporting attendees to a realm where music and history intertwine.
Kicking off the festivities on Friday, the 24th of May, is the Festival Launch Concert featuring the talented Children’s Chorus, led by Mathew Wright MBE, renowned Artistic Director of the Barnsley Youth Choir. The evening promises to be a celebration of youthful talent and musical prowess, setting the stage for an enchanting weekend ahead.
As twilight descends, Vox Angelica and the Vicars Choral of St Davids Cathedral Choir take centre stage for their annual candlelit concert on Friday evening. Expect an enchanting repertoire of light- hearted songs and anthems, perfectly suited to the ambiance of a late spring night.
Saturday, the 25th of May, offers a diverse lineup of musical experiences, starting with the Coffee Concert – Choristers Unplugged! Here, the Cathedral Choristers shed their formal attire to present a programme of popular and musical theatre songs, promising a refreshing twist to traditional choral performances.
Later that evening, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales returns for its highly anticipated annual performance. Under the baton of conductor Dinis Sousa, the orchestra will present a captivating programme featuring works by William Mathias, Jean Sibelius, and Johannes Brahms, ensuring a memorable evening for classical music aficionados.
On Sunday, the 26th of May, the cathedral echoes with the timeless beauty of choral music as the St Davids Cathedral Choir leads the services for Trinity Sunday, offering moments of reflection and spiritual upliftment.
The festival draws to a grand finale on Sunday evening with the debut UK performance of the dynamic Preseli Trio.
Hailing from Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the trio, comprising a Soprano, Horn, and Piano, brings a fusion of contemporary compositions and Welsh influences to the stage, promising an unforgettable musical journey.
With its rich tapestry of musical genres, stunning setting, and world- class performers, the St Davids Cathedral Festival continues to enchant audiences year after year, reaffirming its status as one of the highlights of the British cultural calendar. For those seeking an immersive musical experience amidst historic splendour, the 2024 Festival is an event not to be missed.