The traditional cathedral choir sound is unique, combining the angelic voices of the junior members , the experienced voices of the adults and perhaps a touch of heaven, in an expertly managed interplay requiring each singer to be aware of the others.

Although, sadly, there are few gothic cathedrals left in Hungary, the Gabrieli Choir, has for a decade, been successfully bringing this divine atmosphere to audiences here.

The choir’s director Richard Solyom, born in the UK, used to sing in the choir of Carlisle Cathedral , which dates back to 1541. He moved to Hungary 15 years ago, and formed the Gabrieli Choir in 2005.

The Budapest based ensemble is a mixed voices chamber choir with 20-25 singers. Among the members you find professionals, and enthusiastic amateurs alike. The repertoire consists mainly of Anglican sacred music from the middle ages to the present day, but the choir also sings music from non- English composers .

The choir performs at traditional Anglican services and Evensongs and also sings traditional and modern Christmas carols both at special Christmas services ( the traditional Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols) and in the open air. (eg.: at the Vörösmarty tér Christmas fair, and Szentendre.)

However, the Gabrieli Choir does not only participate in services ,but gives many concerts as well.

In the past 10 years it has given more than 70 concerts both alone and together with other musicians in Hungary and abroad.

During their 10th anniversary season, this autumn the Gabrieli Choir is once again making a tour to Britain. During their busy schedule the group will give concerts and services in Edinburgh, Carlisle, Keswick, Newcastle, and also in Durham Cathedral, a Unesco World Heritage site. Upon their return on November 8th, they will celebrate with a 10th Anniversary performance of Duruflé’s stunningly beautiful Requiem in the Matthias Church . Along with many traditional Christmas pieces that will feature in the choir’s Christmas Concert (December 12th, )the Gabrieli choir will give the Hungarian premiere of the English composer Gerald Finzi’s piece In Terra Pax .

Closing its anniversary year this December the musical director and the choir would like to express their thanks and gratitude to their audience and supporters during these years, and heartily hope that this beautiful tradition of Anglican cathedral singing will continue to enthrall those who come to listen and bring them peace and tranquility.
The group’s engagements can be followed on the choir’s webpage at: gabrielichoir.org and also on Facebook .

Duruflé Requiem
Friday 6th November, 2015, 7.30 p.m.
Matthias Church
Budapest I., Szentháromság tér 2

Source: http://www.gabrielichoir.org