Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue
Saturday 22 June, 7.30pm
Christchurch Priory Festival Orchestra & Chorus
Duncan Honeybourne Piano
Simon Earl Conductor
Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue
Gershwin Overture and Summertime
Wood Fantasia on British Sea Songs
Parry arr. Elgar Jerusalem
Elgar Pomp and Circumstance March No 1.
And other “Last Night” favourites
Tickets: £30, £25, £20 and £15 *Free glass of Prosecco included in ticket price
Experience the magic of George Gershwin’s jazz and classical masterpiece Rhapsody in Blue 100 years after it premiered in what promises to be a sensational close to the Festival, with a full Festival Orchestra conducted by The Priory’s Director of Music Simon Earl.
Gershwin famously rushed to compose what became one of the most significant compositions of the 20th Century after he discovered that the première was to take place just four weeks later. He even improvised some of the solo piano parts at that well-documented first performance, with the conductor instructed to “Wait for nod!” in Gershwin’s hand-written score. For this special anniversary performance the critically acclaimed Concert Pianist Duncan Honeybourne will perform the evocative piano solos. Described as both ‘gripping’ (The Times) and ‘glittering’ (International Piano), Honeybourne’s performance is one not to be missed.
The second half of the concert will see Christchurch Priory Choirs, as well as our audience, join the concert under the direction of Simon Earl, as we raise the roof and wave the flags to join in the “Last Night” favourites - Henry Wood’s Fantasia on British Sea Songs, “Jerusalem”, and more!
During the interval the audience will be invited to enjoy a complimentary glass of prosecco at the Festival’s special Cloisters’ Bar.
Book early to secure your seats for this roof-raising Festival finale.
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.
