Peace and conflict through the human voice at Sage Gateshead

The World War One Centenary commemorative events at Sage Gateshead continue with a number of orchestral and choral concerts including a very special European Concert Hall Organisation commission, Body of Song on Sunday 9^th November. Presented by renowned baritone, Sir Thomas Allen, ECHO: Body of Song, marks the outbreak of WW1 with new choral works that explore the theme of peace and conflict through the human voice.  Performed by the Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia, Custom Voices, Voices of Hope and Sage Gateshead’s own youth choir Quay Voices, this concert is a truly fitting reflection of war. Sir Thomas Allen also lends his voice to Britten: War Requiem on 8 November when Newcastle upon Tyne Bach Choir join forces with students from Newcastle University together with tenor Robert Murray and Samling Scholar Kate Valentine. Sir Thomas Allen said: “Whether we remain aware of it or not, to a greater or lesser degree, the importance of the year 2014 is very significant in our lives.  This most awful of wars, the war to end all wars, is especially significant as it gave rise to some of the most touching and moving poetry in our language, and some of the most deeply poignant songs.” “Its resonances continue, the story goes on, and out of the darkness comes beauty and inspirational writing of music prose and verse.   After all the horrors, in just the same way as the most vivid and beautiful of red flowers appeared in thousands on what had been a place of utmost ugliness, words and music do indeed have the power of healing.” The final concert in the series is the Newcastle Choral Society Diamond Jubilee Concert on Saturday 29 November.  The choir is joined by Tees Valley Youth Choir, members of Mid Northumberland Chorus and local members of the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain.  The repertoire includes the world premiere of Will Todd’s ‘The Dream of the River’, commissioned by the choir, and Karl Jenkins’ ‘The Armed Man’. Local choirs are also invited to participate in a special commemorative event, Reflections on Peace, between 11am and 3.30pm on Sunday 9 November at Sage Gateshead.  Any choirs interested in performing please e-mail [email protected] For tickets and further details on all the above please call 0191 443 4661 or visit www.sagegateshead.com