Voice and Verse Lunchtime Concert

When Westminster Abbey authorities buried the Clerk of the King’s Works in the South Transept of their church building in 1400, little did they know that six centuries later that part of the Abbey would be a site of pilgrimage for literature lovers. The Clerk in question, Geoffrey Chaucer, was also a poet and has become known as the “Father of English poetry”, and over the centuries many of England’s finest writers have been buried or memorialised in that corner of the Abbey alongside him.

Their words have also inspired countless musical settings, and this 45-minute recital explores just a small portion of some of the choral music setting their texts. With beautiful poetry by Chaucer, Tennyson, Dryden, Blake and others exquisitely set to music by composers such as Purcell, Britten, Elgar and Parry, this programme celebrates the marriage of voice and verse, including both well-known music and hidden gems.

St Margaret’s Consort is the professional choir which sings at services in the church, including at memorial services for some of the most prominent member of both Houses of Parliament and other public figures. They are conducted by Greg Morris, the Director of Music at St Margaret’s.

Timings

Entry to St Margaret’s is via the West Door to the church from 12.45pm. The concert will begin at 1pm and last for approximately 45minutes without an interval, finishing at 1.45pm.

If you wish to visit the Abbey alongside the concert we recommend you book a timed slot for either before 12pm or 2pm to allow time for both activities. If you are visiting the Abbey on the same day as the concert, or are an Abbey Associate, you are able to book a £5 ticket at checkout and will need to show proof of Abbey ticket or membership card.

Access & Security

Please be aware that your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.

On arrival please have your ticket ready to show our staff (on your mobile phone, or printed). In the case of those booking the discounted concert ticket, you will also need to show your Abbey ticket or Association membership card. Those who cannot provide their Abbey ticket will be asked to pay the additional £5 to cover the cost of the concert ticket.

Filming & Photography

Please note that photography, filming and sound recording are not permitted at Abbey concerts.

General

Concert tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Host or Publisher Westminster Abbey