Following a sell-out performance of Fauré’s Requiem in May, accompanied by Concordia Strings and David Grierson, the Gillingham Singers return this month with something truly special – the world première of Stars, by Dorset-based composer Stephen Deutsch.
The concert takes place at St James’ Church, Shaftesbury, on Saturday 22nd November at 7.30pm, and will also feature music by Bob Chilcott, Philip Stopford and others.
Stephen Deutsch, originally from the USA, has lived in Dorset for more than 45 years. Educated at Juilliard and a former professor of post-production at Bournemouth University, his music has been performed by the Medici Quartet, the Gaudier Ensemble and the London Mozart Players, among others.
Stars was developed through conversations with Richard Nye, the choir’s director, the two men discovering a shared love for combining voice and electronics. ‘It is a piece which comprises many elements: spoken text, electronic sounds, instrumental sounds and location sounds,’ says Stephen. ‘It is about the wonder of the heavens.’ Stephen will introduce the piece on the night, offering a rare insight into a composer’s process before its first live performance.
Tickets are £10 in advance (from Novia, Gillingham High St, or via Carole Brooks on 07572 786416 – cash only) or £12 on the door, and include a glass of wine or soft drink.
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