Holst: The Cloud Messenger

Exotic romantic fantasy infuses The Cloud Messenger, a rich sung epic inspired by Indian stories and beliefs, performed by the Three Choirs Festival Voices. Holst sets a Sanskrit poem describing how a nature spirit persuades a passing cloud to send a love message to his wife in the distant Himalayas. Glorious mountain views are brought to life by the music, showing a remote and colourful paradise. Fluttering wings and scratching feet are heard in Respighi’s The Birdsas the composer paints a picture of bird movements and birdsong in lively and extraordinary music. Judith Weir’s mellow Still, Glowing and an exciting festival commission from the award-winning Welsh composer Nathan James Dearden complete the programme.

Tickets from £15.

Programme Information

Beth Taylor mezzo-soprano
Three Choirs Festival Voices
Philharmonia Orchestra
Geraint Bowen conductor

Nathan James Dearden Messages premiere 15’
Judith Weir Still, Glowing 4’
Respighi The Birds 20’
G Holst The Cloud Messenger 40’