A Hymn for St Cecilia

This anthem was commissioned by Anna Lapwood for the Choir of Pembroke College, Cambridge, during her tenure as Director of Music, to mark the 40th anniversary of women being admitted to study at the college. The wonderfully lyrical poetry, by Ursula Vaughan Williams, conjures heavenly images, and the fluidly shifting harmonies are designed to convey a transcendental sound. In homage to the beloved setting of the same text by Herbert Howells, the hymn follows a roughly strophic path, with three iterations of a ‘verse’ melody exploring various reharmonisations and vocal textures. The opening verse presents this melody delicately and airily, leading into a richer, more affirming central verse which features an unaccompanied passage. The organ re-enters, personifying the memory of a musical echo. The final verse begins with a sombre chant-like texture which blooms into an uplifting, full-scored conclusion. This piece would suit experienced choirs as an anthem or substantial concert item, suitable for many occasions throughout the calendar.