“Purcell 300”: Westminster Abbey 1995 (Martin Neary)

BBC television broadcast on 21 November 1995 to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the death of Henry Purcell.

“Live coverage of a concert marking the 300th anniversary of the death of Henry Purcell. The concert comes from Westminster Abbey, where Purcell was organist and where he is buried, and features music spanning five centuries by Byrd, Elgar, Gibbons, Handel, Britten, and Purcell. Martin Neary conducts the New London Consort and the Choir of Westminster Abbey; and Andrew Davis conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, and the Nash Ensemble. The soloists are Emma Kirkby, James Bowman, David Wilson-Johnson and Robin Leggate. Introduced by Nicholas Kenyon.” [Radio Times]

[JayR-uygl]

What a treat to watch Dr. Neary conducting so long ago. He is still going strong, as I will have the honour and privilege of performing Purcell and other works for him in Grand Rapids, Michigan USA again this fall. He has been associate director of our choir, the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys the last 9 years, gracing us with his expertise and conducting, and I must say many great stories. He has been a treasure for us, and for me personally a dream come true in bringing this fine tradition to us on this side of the pond. Having been a Chorister from 1974-79, and a countertenor ever since, and now having my son singing for him as a Chorister has truly been awesome! This is probably his last time with us, as he is 80. But, it will be a treasured memory forever. Thank you Martin.

[jamiepompey]

Ha, I’m one of the choristers who was interviewed. Can’t believe this has found its way to the internet. Just amazing, brings back a lot of memories. This concert was a real big deal for the Abbey back then.

[brianmckay]

I have been looking for this for years! A 1, 000 thanks for uploading. Just beginning to watch but my memory is that this was a superb production. Many hours of pleasure ahead!

[나무야나무야-xy]

Great music and performance!
Many many thanks from Korea.

[magesterium]

My heart is indicting that fabulous opening from the strings ! Purcell at is best. Also interesting hearing from the boys in the choir school their hopes and aspirations of what careers they hope for in later life.

[simonbarrowuk]

Thanks *so* much for this - fabulous concert and presentation. (The Tippett sections are a goldmine discovery for me).

[GOLD]

Fantastic have only seen a small portion of this so far. Bit disappointed the organ wasn't featured.

[petersumner]

I don't know Neary had such a bad press, he may have not been popular, but the boys sang with perfection.

[thekingscounterpoint]

Isn’t the soprano Catherine Bott, and not Emma Kirkby?

[nelsonwhaley]

When Neary arrrived, I remember that he stopped the lay clerks from frequenting The Westminster Arms across the road which caused much unrest! Hearing the Purcell reminds me of the good old days under Simon Preston..unsurpassed, with Trevor Pinnock. Funny seeing Lawrence Wallington who has been there many years since Douglas Guest I think.
It is a shame that the present incumbent performs so much plainsong over the usual Anglican repertoire