Advent Programme(s)

In the Christian calendar, Advent is a time of great anticipation — of Christ’s coming, yet also foreboding: a promise of the suffering to follow and of his second coming. It is a time for introspection and reflection, yet also for celebrating the Virgin Mary. This uplifting as well as thought-provoking programme includes traditional carols and hymns along with lesser-known works to put things in a different perspective.

The list below can reflect an actual programme arc, but is highly customisable in terms of focus and structure.

 Anticipating Christ

Angelus ad Virginem
Anonymous (13th century)

Ther is no rose of swych virtu
Anonymous (c. 1420)

Sermone blando (instrumental)
William Byrd (1540 – 1623)

Ne timeas Maria
Tomás Luis de Victoria (c. 1548 – 1611)

Reflection

Media vita (Gregorian chant)

Miri it is
Anoymous (13th century)

Peccantem me quotidie
Victoria

Second Coming

Rex noster promptus est  (chant)
Hildegard von Bingen (c. 1098 – 1179)

Libera me
Victoria

Celebrating the Virgin Mary

O Virgo splendens (chant/canon)
Llibre Vermell de Montserrat (14th century)

Nigra sum sed formosa
Mathieu Gascongne (fl. early 16th century)

Ave maris stella
Jacquet de Mantua 1483 – 1559)

Cum processit factura / Cum erubuerint
Hildegard

We haven’t had an Advent concert since (very long ago)! Would you like to help us fill that void?

Programme Notes

(coming later)