Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Choral

 

The Rochester Cathedral Choir is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been enchanting audiences with their heavenly voices for over 1,400 years. The choir is based in the historic Rochester Cathedral, which is located in the city of Rochester, Kent, England. The choir has a rich history that dates back to the early days of Christianity in England, and their music has been an integral part of the cathedral's worship services for centuries. The origins of the Rochester Cathedral Choir can be traced back to the 7th century, when the cathedral was founded by the Bishop of Rochester, Justus. The choir was established as part of the cathedral's worship services, and it quickly gained a reputation for its beautiful singing. Over the centuries, the choir has undergone many changes, but it has always remained a vital part of the cathedral's worship and cultural life. One of the highlights of the Rochester Cathedral Choir's history was the appointment of John Blow as the cathedral's organist and choirmaster in 1668. Blow was a renowned composer and musician, and he helped to establish the choir's reputation as one of the finest in England. During his tenure, he composed many works for the choir, including anthems, hymns, and services. His most famous work, "God Spake Sometime in Visions," is still performed by the choir today. Another important figure in the choir's history was Samuel Sebastian Wesley, who served as the cathedral's organist and choirmaster from 1830 to 1842. Wesley was a prolific composer and musician, and he wrote many works for the choir, including anthems, hymns, and services. His most famous work, "Lead Me, Lord," is still a favorite of the choir and is often performed at special services and events. In the 20th century, the Rochester Cathedral Choir continued to thrive under the leadership of a series of talented organists and choirmasters. One of the most notable of these was Barry Rose, who served as the cathedral's organist and choirmaster from 1958 to 1968. Rose was a gifted musician and conductor, and he helped to raise the choir's profile through his recordings and performances. During his tenure, the choir recorded several albums, including "Christmas Carols from Rochester Cathedral" and "Favourite Hymns from Rochester Cathedral." Today, the Rochester Cathedral Choir is led by Scott Farrell, who was appointed as the cathedral's organist and choirmaster in 2016. Farrell is a talented musician and conductor, and he has continued the choir's tradition of excellence. Under his leadership, the choir has performed at many prestigious events and venues, including the Royal Albert Hall and St. Paul's Cathedral. One of the highlights of the Rochester Cathedral Choir's recent history was their performance at the 2018 Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The choir was invited to perform at the wedding by the couple, and they sang several pieces during the ceremony, including "This is the Day," which was composed by John Rutter specifically for the occasion. The choir's performance was widely praised, and it helped to raise their profile even further. In addition to their performances at special events and venues, the Rochester Cathedral Choir also performs regularly at the cathedral's worship services. They sing at several services each week, including Evensong, which is a traditional Anglican service of evening prayer.

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