A pair of Isle of Wight choirs will join forces next month for a special concert celebrating the 80th birthday of one of the UK’s most celebrated composers of choral music.
Ryde Chorus and Salutaris will perform together at All Saints’ Church in Ryde on Saturday 18th April 2026 in honour of Sir John Rutter, whose works and Christmas carols are performed around the world.
The choirs will present a performance of Rutter’s Magnificat, a musical setting of the New Testament canticle also known as the “Song of Mary”. The biblical text, recorded in St Luke’s Gospel, is sung by the Virgin Mary after she learns she will give birth to Christ.
Written in 1990, the piece blends traditional Latin verses – typically sung during Vespers or Evensong – with the old English poem Of A Rose and the prayer Sancta Maria. Together they create a joyful and poetic celebration of praise, faith and devotion centred on Mary.
The concert programme will also feature several of Sir John Rutter’s well-known arrangements, including A Gaelic Blessing, Amazing Grace and All Things Bright and Beautiful.
Local soprano Tressa Lambert will perform as the guest soloist, accompanied by James Longford.
Refreshments will be available during the interval.
A great composer/conductor.