A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, with Music by John Tavener and Arvo Pärt

Red Events presents a radiant Christmas programme, illuminated by candlelight, centred on Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols. Conducted by Peter Allwood, the performance will take place at the historic St. Gabriel's Church in Pimlico, a monumental church offering an atmospheric setting for choral music.

Written in 1942 during Britten’s sea voyage from the United States to England and premiered the following year, this celebrated cycle of 12 short movements for voices and harp combines medieval English and Latin texts with music of remarkable clarity, delicacy and brilliance. By turns mystical, playful and radiant, A Ceremony of Carols has become one of the most beloved choral works of the Christmas season.

Britten’s masterpiece is complemented by sacred works by John Tavener and Arvo Pärt, composers whose music explores the profound connection between spirituality, silence and sound. Their meditative compositions bring a sense of stillness and transcendence to the programme, creating a compelling dialogue between different musical traditions and generations.