Orchestral Mass Marks Dr Neil McEwen’s Farewell Performance At Christ Church St Laurence

For 38 years, the name of Dr Neil McEwan, AM FRSCM, has been synonymous with the Choir of Christ Church Laurence. Soon, the Director of Music and of this prestigious choir at Christ Church St Laurence, will retire. The Parish’s Orchestral Mass on Sunday week, 16 September will be his farewell appearance conducting the choir. It will be a momentous event, full of many memories and gratitude.

Directed by Dr McEwen, the choir will sing Haydn’s Missa in Angustiis (Nelson Mass) with the St Laurence Orchestra, organist Peter Jewkes, soprano Josie Ryan, alto Helen Sherman, tenor Eric Peterson and bass Craig Everingham. Also on the programme are Sir Hubert Parry’s I was glad and  the motet Behold the tabernacle of God (Harris).

Among his many musical roles over the last several decades, Dr McEwan presented the predecessor to ABC Classic FM’s sacred music programme For The God Who Sings, which follows themes and festivals from the church year. The programme on Sunday September 9 offers a look at Dr McEwen’s career and includes a number of recordings by the choir.

The broadcast will be available for delayed listening from anywhere with an internet connection for the next two weeks.

http://www.abc.net.au/classic/for-the-god-who-sings/for-the-god-who-sings/10197422