An Introduction to Voice and Verse 2010

8 – 10th April

Welcome to Convivium Music’s third Voice and Verse Festival.

Convivium Music is delighted to be able to stage its 5th World Première in Lincolnshire – the St Hugh’s Commission – “TomKat Murr” a piece of music commissioned from Judith Bingham by Convivium Music with funds provided by the St Hugh’s Foundation.

Judith Bingham has made her mark as a composer for voice, particularly choral, having been a member of the BBC Singers and then their Composer in Association and it will be a great pleasure to welcome her and the new piece. The text is derived from ETA Hoffman’s “The Life and Opinions of the Tomkat Murr” and is full of character and dramatic expression.

The commission has provided the opportunity to combine artists of national standing, Benedict Nelson and Andrew West, members of the regional orchestra who regularly visit Lincoln, Sinfonia Viva and the long established local Hungate Singers. Uniting artists for a particular occasion adds an extra spark and being able to see the process of creating the new piece – at Horncastle and in the Open Rehearsal is as interesting and exciting as seeing the finished product.

The festival is also an opportunity to celebrate the bicentenary of the birth of one of the supreme song-writers, Robert Schumann. The programmes include some of his miraculous torrent of creativity in 1840.

Other events include exploration of the Robert and Clara Schumann relationship, the links with ETA Hoffman, a partnership with the Drill Hall Children’s Festival and a chance to meet the composer.

Discover, have fun, savour the singing………

We look forward to seeing you there.

Convivium Music Board of Directors