The release of Eternal Source of Light Divine marks a special time in the history of Ipswich Minster. The church and choir have enjoyed many milestones in recent months. From Ed Sheeran visiting and starring alongside Griff Rhys Jones, David Baddiel and Gavin and Stacey’s Ruth Jones at the Regent, to celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Girl Choristers by singing in St Paul’s Cathedral and performing with Chapel Royal of Hampton Court Palace in Aldeburgh, the town’s minster choir continues to receive national acclaim.
The choir, trained and conducted by Christopher Borrett, Ipswich Minster’s Director of Music, is built around the talents of local young people aged 8-18, all recruited from over 15 schools in Ipswich and East Suffolk. And this year they have come together to record and create a new album including many famous choral works, such as Handel’s stunning Eternal Source of Light Divine (including his famous Hallelujah chorus). In the album, the choir is accompanied by an orchestra comprised of local musicians from across Suffolk.
The new album Eternal Source of Light Divine was released on Spotify on Sunday 13 April and is available for purchase as a commemorative copy CD at Ipswich Minster.
The Director of Music of Ipswich Minster, Christopher Borrett, said: “The programme of this recording has been chosen to encapsulate not only the musical exploits and talents of the choir – all the soloists are current or former choristers - but also Ipswich Minster’s mission and ministry. We wish to engage with others with creativity, compassion and joy.”
The Vicar of Ipswich Minster, The Revd Tom Mumford, said: “A core strand of mission of service to Ipswich and Suffolk is through our support of the arts, and particularly music education for young people. The Minster is determined to continue its music outreach in schools, not least in the most underprivileged areas of our town and county. We believe in the power of music to unite, inspire, and enable all, both singers and audiences, to flourish. I am so proud of what, particularly our young people have achieved in this album. Rave reviews will follow!”
Ipswich Minster, including their choir, are set to broadcast live on BBC Radio 4 on Sunday 18 May for the flagship religious programme Sunday Worship. This will be another opportunity to celebrate Ipswich on the national stage.