The Bangkok Music Society Choir (BMS), one of the oldest choral groups in Thailand, begins its first full season of events since the pandemic with a memorial concert on Saturday at 6pm. The venue is Christ Church on Convent Road, Silom.
Accompanied by the pipe organ of Christ Church, this choral performance is dedicated to the memory of Queen Elizabeth II who died on Sept 8, aged 96. Queen Elizabeth visited Thailand on state visits twice, in 1972 and 1998. Most of her 70-year reign coincided with King Bhumibol the Great's equally long reign, who passed away six years ago on Oct 13.
Additionally, the concert marks the passing of a past president of BMS and long-time Christ Church member, Daphne Colwell, who died aged 92 in June. Born in England, Daphne is fondly remembered by many as a leading light in Bangkok during the 70s, 80s and 90s, when she worked for the United Nations.
The evening programme comprises much-loved works by British and French composers as both dedicatees had strong ties with France and were very familiar with the music.
The main work is the much-loved Requiem In D Minor by Gabriel Fauré (1888 with later revisions), performed recently in many cathedrals and churches throughout the UK and in Commonwealth nations.
Both the start and finish of the concert feature choral works by the British composer Hubert Parry. The rousing opening of organ and chorus Blest Pair Of Sirens (1887) with the words "Their loud up-lifted angel trumpets blow" opens the concert while Parry's well-known hymn Jerusalem ends the commemoration.
Accompanist on Christ Church's pipe organ will be Morakot Cherdchoo-gnarm, with Margaret Young as conductor.
There is no admission fee but donations are welcome for the church's charities.
Visit bangkokmusicsociety.com.
