Cathedral Choral Evensong is essentially a service of reflection—of leaving ourselves open that God may speak to us through the psalms, readings and canticles, which are the core of the service. Cathedrals with a great choral tradition draw upon a rich inheritance of music, much of it sung by the choir alone. In the Anglican tradition this music finds its natural setting in the office of Evensong, a combination of the medieval offices of Vespers and Compline. The choice of scripture readings is from the ecumenical lectionary now in use in the Church of Ireland, reading though the different books of the Bible, little by little, day by day.
Today, the choir will be singing Bach’s cantata no. 140, Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns Die Stimme. This 30-minute piece combines beautiful poetry with Bach’s masterful writing and will direct us to the upcoming season of Advent. Accompanied by orchestra, this service promises to be raise the spirits. It is free to attend and open to all.
“Where are ye all, ye virgins wise? The Bridegroom comes in sight, raise high your torches bright!”
You can access the Service Sheet, and this month’s Music List here: Service Sheet and Music List
You can watch the service online here: Watch Online
