A STAR baritone appearing in the Last Night of the Proms will mark the centenary of The First World War at Stogumber Festival on Thursday, September 4.
Internationally-acclaimed Roderick Williams will perform a recital inspired by The Great War just days before appearing at the Royal Albert Hall.
A regular recital artist, he has performed with major orchestras and festivals worldwide, and in lead roles in many opera houses.
Lance Moir, chair of the Stogumber Festival committee, said they were “honoured” by Williams’s visit, adding: “Through his selection of songs Roderick will be telling the story of the First World War, from the world on the brink of collapse, through the gathering of storm clouds and nightmare of the trenches to the courage of men and women in adversity, and then the costs – the deaths, the survivors, the legacy.
“Many of the poets and composers whose work is being performed were in the war and some were killed in action.
“This concert in St Mary’s Church will be a fitting tribute not only to them, but to the millions affected by the tragedy of the hostilities.”
Williams will be accompanied by top Czech concert pianist and Guildhall School of Music tutor Lada Valešová.
The Stogumber Festival takes place from Thursday to Sunday, September 4-7.
Visit www.stogumberfestival.com or call RODERICK WILLIAMS 0845-5390168 for the full programme.
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