Rossini: Petite Messe Solennelle

7:30pm, Fri, 21 Nov 2025

  • Event Details
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  • Type of event: Performance
    Start time: 7:30pm
    Venue: Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TJ
      See map below
    Ticket pricing/options: Band A - Front Nave £25.00
    Band B - Rear Nave £20.00
    Band C - West End £16.00
    Band C - Aisles. £16.00

    Under 26's - Half Price

    Please note - all seats are unreserved
    Tickets: Book now
    Description: Rossini: Petite Messe Solennelle


    Bristol Choral Society
    Hilary Campbell

    Piano I - Maria Struckova
    Piano II -  Krystal Tunnicliffe

    Harmonium - Liam Dunachie

    Soprano - Charlotte Richardson
    Alto - Helen Stanley
    Tenor - Graham Neal
    Bass - Jamie W Hall



    Gioachino Rossini composed his Petite Messe Solennelle in 1863, more than three decades after completing his final opera - William Tell. Written in Paris during the twilight of his life, this remarkable work is a testament to Rossini’s enduring creativity, wit, and musical brilliance. Despite its title, the Petite Messe Solennelle is neither petite nor solemn—it’s a radiant, rhythmically thrilling piece that blends sacred tradition with operatic flair.
     
    Scored for choir, four soloists, two pianos, and harmonium, the instrumentation is as unconventional as it is effective. Originally intended for performance in Rossini’s private salon, the work’s chamber-like intimacy and dramatic contrasts make it ideally suited to the acoustics of Bristol Cathedral, where its clarity and colour can truly shine.
     
    Under the direction of acclaimed conductor Hilary Campbell, Bristol Choral Society brings this late-life masterpiece to life with a stellar cast of soloists and instrumentalists. Expect soaring vocal lines, playful harmonies, and moments of profound beauty—all delivered with Rossini’s signature sparkle.
     
    Join us on Friday 21 November 2025 at 7:30pm for an unforgettable evening of music that defies expectation and celebrates the genius of one of Italy’s greatest composers. Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or new to choral music, this performance promises to be a highlight of Bristol’s musical calendar.
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