In an exciting and diverse programme of 20th and 21st century a cappella music themed around the earth, The Holst Singers, directed by renowned conductor Eamonn Dougan, make their debut at the Barnes Music Festival. The centrepiece of the programme is Aaron Copland’s majestic, In the beginning, which sets the text of the first chapters of Genesis. Other pieces in the programme reflect themes of light, creation and life, from the stillness and serenity of John Tavener’s, The Lamb to the ecstatic wonder of Kenneth Leighton’s, God’s grandeur.

Holst Singers is one of Britain’s foremost choirs, described by the BBC as “a leading chorus on the international stage”. With the support of their President, James Bowman, and Music Director, Stephen Layton, the choir has developed its interest in exploring new and neglected works as well as core choral repertoire.