"It is a celebration of glorious music from composers inspired by the greatest devotion and faith, who were moved by the compelling narrative of Holy Week. From the late-night Offices of Tenebrae sung by candlelight to J.S. Bach’s powerful St John and St Matthew Passions, there will be something for everyone. The festival will also mark the 60th birthday year of one of the UK’s finest living composers, Sir James MacMillan, by celebrating his extraordinarily beautiful and evocative music. Amongst other highlights, MacMillan’s incomparable setting of the Seven Last Words from the Cross will be performed by Tenebrae and Britten Sinfonia, coupled with Francis Poulenc’s dramatic and poignant four motets for Lent, together with Haydn’s setting performed by the esteemed Brodsky Quartet. Once again, we are delighted to welcome some of the UK’s finest vocal ensembles together with their astonishingly talented directors.

When you have made the journey to St John’s Smith Square to join us, sit back, relax and let this musical feast transport you away from the everyday strains and stresses of our hectic modern day lives. Stay on to immerse yourself in our re-enactment of some of the most atmospheric and spiritually intense liturgical events of the Christian calendar. I hope that this festival fulfils all your musical needs."