THE ANGEL OF MONS

On my album Angel there is a track called Out Of The Depths.  This is an excerpt from a larger work called The Angel of Mons and I am writing this blog as the piece is nearing completion.  

Yesterday there was a large article in the Telegraph about 'myths' surrounding the war - I did not even bother to read it because I am well aware of what the doubters say and the elaborate explanations they give to 'prove' that the apparition could not have appeared.  To them I say it is far easier not to believe than to believe.  What would the writer of yesterday's article say if confronted face-to-face by a soldier who fought in the battle of Mons and actually witnessed the angel?  To me, it is entirely feasible that an angel of God should appear at a time of such crisis in the history of mankind.  

While writing this work I have come to feel great empathy with the innocent young men who, on the one hand, were keen to fight for King and Country, and on the other, had no idea whatsoever of the horrors that were to befall them.  My brother's libretto perfectly capture the spirit of optimism which soon became discoloured during the march to Mons; the use of the psalms is a perfect way of connecting with the prayers of both those who fought and those who waited anxiously at home.  

As well as Out Of The Depths the soprano soloist has two other solos - Angel's Charge and Angel's Lament.  One of these is accompanied by solo violin the other by string quartet, and both rely on plainsong.  It is important that the angel is set apart from the rest of the performers, singing words entirely based on scripture.  

I am so looking forward to the premiere on 23rd August which will be the exact centenary of the apparition.  The concert is taking place at my brother's church in Lincolnshire and all profits will go to the Royal Anglian Regiment Benevolent Charity.

The Angel of Mons concert is on 23rd August 2014 at 7:30pm in St Michael & All Angels Church, Edenham (nr. Bourne), Lincolnshire, PE10 0LS.

Tickets priced at £20, £15 and £10 are available by clicking here.