Choral Workshops

Our choral workshops for 2024 focus on a brace of Dixit Domini!

Psalm 110: Dixit Dominus has inspired many composers to write their finest music and we explore one of three versions by Antonio Vivaldi. This version RV595 is written for 5 voices SSATB and includes some complex and agile choral writing. We will aim to look at all the movements, giving us all a chance to sing the solo sections as well.

Around the same time, the youthful Handel was visiting Italy in 1707 when he wrote his five-voice setting, which is extravagant in its demands of the singers. Prepare yourself for a white-knuckle ride!

Both workshops will take place at St Michael’s Church, Lewes.

#1   –   Saturday 3rd  February 2024:  Vivaldi  Dixit Dominus RV595

#2   –   Saturday  2nd  March 2024:  Handel  Dixit Dominus

Accompanist

We’re delighted that Howard Beach will once again be joining us as our expert accompanist.

Cost

£25 per workshop day, to include music hire and tea/ coffee & biscuits. Please bring your own water.  There are places to eat lunch close by.  Alternatively you are welcome to bring a packed lunch and stay in the church during the lunch break.

Timetable

10.30am Registration
11 – 1pm – Workshop
1 – 2pm – Lunch break
2 – 4pm – Workshop
4pm – Day ends

Cancellation policy

If we are obliged to cancel a workshop everyone will be refunded. Individual requests for refunds will be dealt with at the Director’s discretion.

Music

Vivaldi: we are using the Robert King edition. Hire copies will be provided, but if you would like to buy your own copy we have them available for £4 (plus postage, if you would like the music sent to you before the day.)

Handel: we are using the Novello /Watkins Shaw edition. Hire copies will be provided but you are welcome to use your own.

Nick will point everyone in the direction of recommended recordings to listen to beforehand, if you’d like to do so.

How to Apply

Please email workshops@musicsussex.org.uk stating your preferred voice part, and which day(s) you would like to attend.

If there’s space, we’ll hold your place and send you details of how to pay. Your place is confirmed once payment is received.

Please note: To ensure a good balance, places will be allocated by Nick and it may not be possible to accommodate everyone who applies.