Three Shakespeare Songs Première

John Rutter has composed Three Shakespeare Songs, which receive their world première on Saturday 13th November at St George’s Cathedral, Southwark (London, UK), performed by the Purcell Singers. The songs are based on texts from Twelfth Night, The Tempest, and Much Ado About Nothing. The concert is themed around the forces of nature, with pieces inspired by traditional folk songs, poetry, and prose. Tickets are available for £15 or £12 for concessions. 

John writes:

“Promised two years ago and finally written – three a cappella Shakespeare songs for my good friend Mark Ford and his excellent choir the Purcell Singers. Shakespeare is always a joy to set to music and I hope this feeling comes across in my three songs, O mistress mine, Be not afeard, and Sigh no more, ladies. Looking forward to the première later this year.”

Book tickets for the live performance >>

The Collegium team has also prepared a playlist commemorating Shakespeare, featuring 14 pieces sung by The Cambridge Singers with words by William Shakespeare. Listen on your favourite streaming platform here >>