The Wordsworth Singers will be giving a concert at St John's Church, Bassenthwaite, near Keswick, on Sat 28 July at 7.30 pm, to mark the centenary of composer and organist Bernard Naylor (1907-1986). Naylor was born into an already established musical dynasty - his father and grandfather were both celebrated composers and organists. Moreover two other relatives sang in Carlisle Cathedral choir!
Although born in Cambridge and educated at Oxford, Naylor spent many years composing and conducting in Canada, eventually taking up permanent residence there in 1959. He holidayed regularly at Bassenthwaite and died there in 1986, so it seems appropriate that this, apparently the only Naylor centenary concert taking place in the UK, should be held in the village church that he knew so well.
The programme will include choral works by Bernard Naylor, his father Edward, his composition teachers Vaughan Williams, Holst and Ireland, contemporary Lennox Berkeley, and Canadian-born composer Harold East, who will be present for the occasion.
The Wordsworth Singers will be conducted by James Grossmith, Chorus Master of Scottish Opera, and the organist for the evening, Assistant Organist of Lincoln Cathedral and co-founder of the choir, Charles Harrison, will accompany the choir and perform solo works by Vaughan Williams, East and Howells.
Tickets £9 in advance from Keswick TIC or by phoning 01228 536146; or £10 on the door. Free to students and under-18s. Refreshments available.