- Duration: 45 minutes
- Soloist(s): Soprano
- Chorus: SATB, and semi-chorus of trebles
- Orchestration: Full Orchestra OR Chamber Orchestra & Organ
- Published by: Novello & Co
“Superbly judged and structured, with rhythms that reflect the ebb and flow of the words and their mood.”
Church Times
Eventide is the name of the well-known hymn tune Abide with Me which was recited by Edith Cavell and an Anglican Chaplain the night before her execution. The hymn is used as a cantus firmus throughout the work sung by a semi-chorus of unbroken voices. A soprano soloist takes on the role of Edith herself singing words from her letters, The Book of Common Prayer and Thomas a Kempis’ The Imitation of Christ. The SATB chorus provides a key role, mirroring Edith’s thoughts and bringing the work to moments of intense climax. Commissioned by the Sheringham & Cromer Choral Society and premiered in Norwich Cathedral in July 2014.
Listen here to Patrick talking on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune about Eventide.
A reduced version for Chamber Orchestra & Organ is also available.