Dear Friends,
What makes a famous legal mind convert from law to a composer? The case of Ian Fletcher comes to mind but then Ian was never just a lawyer. He was also always a talented musician and so when the law showed him his red card, he sprinkled around his gold dust and together with his incredible music talents he composed a new oratorio based on the biblical story of Jonah – and what a story it is!
Whilst the story of Jonah in the Bible is relatively short it does deal quite clearly with the subjects of disobedience, obedience, mercy, and repentance. Fletcher uses his music engagingly to reflect all of these matters and the final chorus is triumphantly devoted to repentance and draws a comparison with the governance at the time of the resurrection and the actions of the people of Nineveh who have repented their sins. The realisation that Jonah’s preaching had made a huge difference in securing this repentance was a revelation and helps us all with the feeling of contrition or regret for past wrongs.
Perhaps this work is a reflection of some of life’s needs today particularly as war ravages some parts of Europe. Fletchers’ music clearly reflects this, and its accessibility is a revelation on its own and as recognisable as the Bible story of Jonah is to many people.
The theme for the evening is “The Sea”. The first half of the programme comprises performances of The Hebrides Overture by Mendelssohn, Senta’s Ballad, Daland’s aria and the duet between Senta and The Dutchman, all from Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman, and two items from HMS Pinafore and The Pirates of Penzance.
The performers for the evening will be the National Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus, Farnham Youth Choir, soloists Katerina Mina, Ashley Riches, Morgan Pearse and Henry Waddington, conducted by John Andrews – over 200 participants.
Click HERE to buy your tickets early and avoid disappointment. Miss it if you dare!
David Buchler