Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius
Saturday 15 June, 7.30pm
Christchurch Priory Festival Orchestra
Christchurch Priory Festival Chorus
Simon Earl Conductor
Tickets: £30, £25, £20 and £15
Elgar’s masterpiece The Dream of Gerontius promises a spectacular opening to the Festival, staged in the stunning setting of The Priory’s historic nave.
Astounding orchestration and thrilling choral writing will be brought to life by a full-sized Orchestra of exceptional musicians, large Festival Chorus and soloists under the baton of Christchurch Priory’s Director of Music, Simon Earl.
Elgar’s moving score is based on Cardinal John Henry Newman’s poem, which chronicles the hopes, expectations and fears of an old man, Gerontius, on his deathbed, as his soul takes the final journey to judgement before God.
‘This is the best of me’ wrote Elgar (quoting Ruskin) at the end of the manuscript. You’ll discover why it is the most popular of all of Elgar’s choral works at this very special Festival performance.
There will be a short interval during the performance, where you can purchase alcoholic and soft drinks from the Festival’s Cloisters Bar.
For further Box Office assistance please phone 01202 143870 and leave a message
Experience The Priory’s awesome Nicholson pipe organ at one of many events to celebrate its restoration 25 years’ ago.
Considered to be one of Britain’s finest pipe organs, with over 4000 pipes and 63 speaking stops, the versatile Nicholson organ has the flexibility and power to be played as an accompaniment to choir and orchestra or as an impressive solo instrument.
Marvel at how it replicates the sounds of other orchestral instruments, and feel its intensity as its low notes reverberate right through you. And witness the dexterity of the organist ‘dancing’ between the manuals and pedals. A must for any music lover!
All events that feature live organ music are marked with this symbol: 
Make the most of your visit by enjoying lunch or drinks at The Priory Tea Rooms or Festival Bar after each event.
The Priory Tea Rooms offers snacks or lunch before or after events. Additionally, you can purchase drinks from the special Cloister's Bar during evening intervals.
