Henry Purcell and the Music of Westminster Abbey with Patrick Craig

Another presentation in Patrick’s inimitable style, with wonderful pictures, musical excerpts and personal anecdotes.

Henry Purcell has been described as England’s Orpheus and ranks alongside the greatest of this country’s composers.  His rise to the position of Organist of Westminster Abbey at the age of 20 saw him lauded above the talents of his predecessor, John Blow and his teacher, Pelham Humfrey, both of whose music we will hear in order to place Purcell in context. His family home was just round the corner from the Abbey and for a while he turned his back on the theatre music he had been pursuing to focus on this job.

As a countertenor Patrick has had the joy of singing much of Purcell’s solo music and will be delighted to share this colourful period in our country’s history. Including music by Gibbons and Croft, Patrick will trace some of the most influential names in the musical heritage of Westminster Abbey and guide us through this extraordinary building.

Please book below.