Aeterna caeli gloria

This dramatic setting of a 5th-century Ambrosian hymn perfectly epitomises the jubilation of the text. Rhythmically complex and involving some tricky melismatic passages, it is particularly suited to cathedral choirs and concert performance. In the composer's words: "Being optimistic by nature, I am very drawn to radiant, lightfilled texts, with their invitation to try and create a dazzling brightness of choral sound. The opening of Aeterna caeli gloria attempts such a fierce brilliance." Commissioned by the Musicians Benevolent Fund in the name of Sir Thomas Armstrong and first performed at the Festival of Saint Cecilia Service in Westminster Abbey on 21 November 2007 by the combined choirs of Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral, and St Paul's Cathedral, under the direction of James O'Donnell.