Conductor Payn is a “big fan” of Downton Abbey!

I’m a big Downton Abbey fan. The PBS show has intrigued me from day one and I watch it faithfully every Sunday night. SVC’s performance of “The Music of Downton Abbey” includes two works from the show’s soundtrack, including “Us and Them” by composer John Lunn.

Our Spring Concert is an encore presentation of a hugely popular performance put together by Dr. Matthew Mehaffey, a Bucknell alumnus who is currently a professor at the University of Minnesota. I am honored and grateful that he shared this program of well-loved English choral works with us.

Some of the pieces have biblical origins, others secular. I’ve found the music is challenging, with lots of layers, textures and harmonic implications. We deviate from the original compositions in one notable regard-they were first written for male singers; our performance is decidedly co-ed.

The singers have really embraced the upcoming event and I can promise it will be a real “hoot” and crowd pleaser for those who attend! SVC soloists will be dressed in period costumes, as will Fiona Siobhán Powell, our very own “Lady Alice,” the narrator who guides us through the trials and tribulations of post-Edwardian, turn-of-the-century events. The audience will be invited to join in on three popular English songs, including our rousing finale -“Rule, Britannia!” the famous and familiar British patriotic song set to music by Thomas Arne in 1740.

The Chorale will be accompanied by our orchestra, along with guest organist David Cover, who’s appeared with us several times in the past. Please join us after the performance to enjoy a delightful spot of tea.

Do join us!