THOUGHTS of wedding-bells loom large in the minds of the Crickhowell Choral Society this term as they prepare for their next concert. The centrepiece of their programme is the amazing C minor Mass by Mozart, who intended the work as a joyous thanksgiving upon his marriage to Constanze in 1783.

Mozart threw his whole being into this work, travelling back to Salzburg from Vienna especially for its premiere and also to try and appease his Father’s distrust. The Mass is claimed by many to be the composer’s most impressive choral work, rivalling the more famous Requiem in its dramatic poise and beauty. The choir are performing with star sopranos Grace Davidson and Catherine King, who sing the ravishing solo movements originally sung by Mozart’s wife.

“This is a glorious work”, claims conductor Steve Marshall, “and one of my all-time favourites. It is a real dream for the choir too, with its energetic fugues, grand double choruses and marvellous tunes throughout.”

Whether Mozart’s marriage was in fact one made in heaven is open to debate but for St. Cecilia such a match was a reality. Mainly famous for being the patron saint of music, Cecilia chose to be wedded to Christ, upholding her vow of chastity in spite of the forced marriage planned by her parents. Her Roman husband, however, accepted her decision upon his conversion on hearing her sing with angels.

They were both subsequently martyred for their faith. This remarkable story is vividly portrayed in Estonian composer Arvo Pärt’s Cecilia, Vergine Romana, which will form the other work in the evening’s programme. This modern masterpiece, written in 2000, will be receiving its first Welsh performance and the choir, who have given other first performances of works by living composers, are relishing the chance to sing Pärt again.

“His music is always distinctive and rewarding to sing”, says Steve, “and this telling of St Cecilia’s martyrdom will be very moving for all involved. It is also Arvo Pärt’s 80th birthday celebration this year and it will be good to honour him on St Cecilia’s own name-day, which falls on the same weekend.” The choir are partnered in these works by the accomplished instrumentalists of the British Sinfonietta, now considered one of the top ranking Welsh orchestras.

With such a contrasting and special pair of pieces on offer, nor to mention the outstanding musicians involved, the concert promises to be a powerful and heartfelt occasion. Music-making of which St Cecilia herself might approve!

The performances takes place Saturday November 21 at - St Mary’s Priory Church, Abergavenny at 7.30pm so why not make it a date! Tickets @£15 from Webbs, Crickhowell; Abergavenny Music (01873) 853394 and Genet Bevan 810935.