In this grand concert, the Bangor University Symphony Orchestra will join Cantorion Menai, and the choirs of the Liverpool Welsh and Bangor Cathedral, all under the direction of Gwyn L. Williams, at Pritchard-Jones Hall, Bangor University.
The Dream of Gerontius is one of Edward Elgar's most profound and powerful compositions. The work is based on the poetry of Cardinal John Henry Newman, following a man's journey on his deathbed before God. The work was composed in 1900, and since then, Elgar's masterpiece has been performed in various countries across the world.
Before the concert, Sir Terry Waite, the well-known author and human rights campaigner, will talk to the Chairman of the Council, Marian Wyn Jones, about the power of music in his life.
Sir Terry Waite was taken hostage in Beirut in 1987 while trying to secure the release of hostages in Lebanon, and spent almost five years in captivity. After his release, he became an advocate for peace and co-founded Hostage International to support hostage victims and their families. Gerontius' Dream means a lot to Sir Terry Waite, as it was the first piece of music he heard after five years as a hostage.
Chairman of the Council, Marian Wyn Jones, said:
"This is a great opportunity to hear a performance of Elgar's magnificent work by masters in their craft, concluding this educational year at Bangor University. It will be a great privilege to have a conversation with Sir Terry Waite about the special significance of this work and the effect it had on him during a difficult and dark period in his history. Elgar's music has been a source of comfort and inspiration to him throughout his life, and if you have a ticket to the concert, we would certainly encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to join Sir Terry and I in our discussion. It promises to be a night to remember.'
Tickets: £25 book online here.
The concert ticket includes access to the conversation with Sir Terry Waite in the Eric Sunderland Lecture Hall, Bangor University's Main Building at 5.45-6.30pm.
