The World Premiere performance of Patrick’s new work Pacis et Caritas – written specially for Choir of the Earth – is tonight.
In the choir’s own words:
“Members of Choir of the Earth met online in June, July and August 2023 for our popular Summer School, at which we learned a diverse range of pieces with Musical Director, Ben England. We are honoured that one of these was Pacis et Caritas. This very special piece was written especially for Choir of the Earth, with text inspired by our members and our Founder, Mark Strachan BEM. We are especially delighted that the composer of this touching piece is Patrick Hawes – a dear friend of the Choir since its early days. Both lyrically and musically, Pacis et Caritas so aptly conveys the Choir’s philosophy of peace, love, harmony and unity across the miles. We were deeply moved by the piece when learning and recording it at home, and we hope you enjoy this beautiful and heartfelt music as we share it with world for the first time.”
Pacis et Caritas
Carmina lungas pacis et caritas
Sempiterno cum desideravit;
Voces veniunt angulis terrae,
Praeter tamen semper conventus.
Singing together of peace and love
While longing for eternity,
Voices from the corners of the earth,
Though set apart, are forever bound in unity.
Words: Mark Strachan; adapted by Andrew Hawes
