Puccini’s Messa di Gloria is a work that offers a fascinating glimpse into the early talent of a composer best known for operatic masterpieces such as La Bohème, Tosca and Madama Butterfly.

Written in 1880 when Puccini was just 21 years old, the Mass was composed as his graduation exercise at the Milan Conservatory. Even at this early stage, Puccini’s gift for melody, drama and emotional expression is unmistakable.

Despite its title, the Messa di Gloria is actually a complete setting of the Catholic Mass, including the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus and Agnus Dei. After its first performance in Puccini’s hometown of Lucca, the work fell into obscurity for many years before being rediscovered in the mid-20th century. It is now recognised as a significant and rewarding piece, full of operatic colour and youthful vitality, with solo writing that foreshadows Puccini’s later stage works.

To complement the Mass and to reflect the Society’s love of dramatic choral music, the programme will also include a selection of famous opera choruses. These will include the radiant Easter Hymn from Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana, the grand Triumphal March from Verdi’s Aida, the joyful final chorus from Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and music from Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice.

Together, these works provide a fittingly celebratory programme for this milestone anniversary concert. The choir welcomes back two of their favourite soloists: English Tenor, Mark Hounsell and Bass, Jacob Dennison.

This anniversary concert marks four decades of music-making, community and shared enjoyment of choral singing. Wadebridge Choral Society has become a valued part of North Cornwall’s musical life. Drawing singers from Wadebridge and the surrounding area, WCS is known for its friendly, inclusive ethos and commitment to performing a wide-ranging repertoire, from major choral works to popular concert favourites.

Performed in the resonant acoustic of St Endellion Church, the evening promises a rich and uplifting musical experience, combining sacred music, operatic drama and choral splendour in a concert that looks back on forty years of Wadebridge Choral Society while celebrating its future.

The concert will take place on Saturday, 25th April, 7pm, at Egloshayle Church. Tickets, priced £20 in advance, will be available online at www.wadebridgechoral.org.uk/concerts-events/, from Wadebridge Bookshop or £25 on the door.

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