On the first pan-EU Orthodox liturgical music conference

(ROCOR-GB-WEU) - The Diocese of Western Europe is pleased to announce the first pan-European Orthodox liturgical music conference, which will take place in London from 23rd – 26th January 2020, based at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Most Holy Mother of God and the Holy Royal Martyrs. The theme of this first conference is ‘The Russian Church—Musical Diaspora: Past, Present and Future’.

Co-sponsored by the Diocese and the Synodal Liturgical Music Commission of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, the conference is specially blessed by the First Hierarch of the Church Abroad, His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, and is aimed at all who are interested in the rich musical tradition of the Russian Orthodox Church, especially in its life in the Diaspora — singers in Church choirs, conductors, readers, and others.

The conference will feature lectures and workshops by renowned international specialists in the field of choral singing and Church musicianship. Special themes include the heritage of the musical traditions of Imperial Russia in the Diaspora; the life and creative legacy of Parisian choir conductors (E. Yevets, N. Ossorguine, Kedrov, etc.); and practices of kliros and choir in Diaspora parishes. Additionally, special roundtable discussions will touch on contemporary issues in liturgical parish singing; the training of singers and readers for parish life; methods of improving liturgical chant; ways to assist parish musical development and education, etc.

Masterclasses will be offered during the conference, including masterclasses on vocal technique and liturgical singing. As a special feature, a renowned quartet from St Petersburg will also perform a concert for participants. The conference will culminate in a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy served in the Diocesan Cathedral in London by His Grace Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe, sung by conference participants.
Register on-line now!

Conference registration is open now (you can register on-line via this form) and remains so until 15th December 2019, with a discount for early registration. Registration includes meals and all activities, including a concluding banquet; and a special rate at a nearby hotel has been secured for those travelling from throughout Europe and wishing to stay in close proximity to the Cathedral.