THE Exon Singers Festival — with its distinctive pattern of music and worship — has had its home in Tavistock since 1973. This year's festival runs from July 28 to August 4.
As usual the Exon Singers,with Jeffrey Makinson (festival organist) and Matthew Owens (musical director), offer a widely varied programme, including music by Spanish Renaissance composer Tomas Luis de Victoria and contrasting works by William Walton and Maurice Duruflé whose centenaries fall this year.
The programme in Buckfast Abbey on Tuesday July 30 provides a rare opportunity to have a reconstruction of Vespers by Victoria, including some of his finest music together with Gregorian Chant. In the glorious acoustics of the abbey this promises to be a stunning experience.
Wednesday July 31 sees the Exon Singers in relaxed mood with a programme at the Wharf in Tavistock, featuring jazz and popular music.
The lunchtime organ recital in Tavistock Parish Church on Thursday August 1 features guest recitalist Daniel Moult, organist of Coventry Cathedral, playing music by J S Bach, Mozart, Dick Koomans and Saint-Saens.
'Hommage a Duruflé' is the title of Friday's concert in Exeter Cathedral, where a rich selection of the composer's greatest music may be heard.
On Saturday there is a chance to enjoy a celebration of the work of William Walton and Maurice Duruflé, and the festival ends as it begins with a service in the lovely 14th century parish church in Tavistock on Sunday August 4.
The festival provides a feast of music from the 16th century to the present day throughout the county of Devon and, as usual, the Exon Singers are grateful to the people of the town and parish of Tavistock for their generous support.
Tickets for all concerts are available through the Wharf box office, Tavistock (01822 611166) or at the door.