Coventry Cathedral hosts a rare performance of R. Nathaniel Dett’s powerful oratorio The Ordering of Moses in a concert celebrating Black composers and their contribution to classical music.
The Royal Leamington Spa Bach Choir and friends come together for a historic Black History Month concert at Coventry Cathedral.
Joined by Leamington Sinfonia, Coventry Cathedral Chorus and Divertimento, the choir will perform The Ordering of Moses, the acclaimed 1932 oratorio by Black Canadian-American composer R. Nathaniel Dett.
Widely regarded as Dett’s greatest work, the oratorio tells the biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Its musical language brings European classical traditions together with African-American spirituals and folk melodies, creating a deeply moving exploration of freedom, faith and Black identity.
The Coventry Cathedral concert marks only the second known UK performance of the complete work.
The programme will also celebrate pioneering composers of colour, including Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Florence Price and William Dawson. Each built an important career in classical music despite facing racial prejudice and barriers to recognition.
The performance features soprano April Koyejo-Audiger, mezzo-soprano Lufuno Ndou, tenor Christian Joel and bass Chuma Sijeqa.
Audiences will have an opportunity to experience a powerful programme of works that are rarely heard in British concert halls, while discovering the contribution Black composers have made to classical music.
Everyone is welcome. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the cathedral on the evening, subject to availability.
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