The William Byrd Singers present "An Italian Triptych"

William Byrd Singers

The Byrds invite you to share our Italian programme on Saturday 19 November at 7.30 at Christ Church, East Didsbury M20 2 ZD.

We open with the glorious Mass composed by Palestrina for Pope Marcellus, who only reigned for 3 weeks in 1555. Palestrina was hailed as the "saviour of polyphony" as this work demonstrates that the beautiful renaissance style need not obscure the words, a topic of much discussion in the church at the time.

In complete contrast, we then sing two pieces by Dallapiccola intriguingly titled "Song of the Unhappy Wives" followed by - you guessed it - "Song of the Unhappy Husbands". I wonder which will be louder?

Our concert finishes with Pizzetti's Requiem which, written in 1922 weaves a twentieth century web over familiar Gregorian chants. It is a masterpiece of a cappella colour and variety which we are sure you will enjoy.

Tickets at £10 (£9 concessions, £5 students) are available at the door or in advance from choir members.

Do join us!