BBC Singers 2026-27 Aurora with the BBC Singers and Edmund de Waal

A luminous celebration of the enduring musical resonance of the Book of Psalms, devised and presented by Edmund de Waal, Aurora Orchestra and the BBC Singers.

Both contemplative and joyous, and one of the composer's most frequently performed works, Chichester Psalms explores themes of peace, praise and unity, and was described by Bernstein as "popular in feeling" with "an old-fashioned sweetness".

Taking Bernstein's work, which imbues the sanctity of the Book of Psalms with the energy of West Side Story, as a starting point, Edmund de Waal explores the soul-stirring power of music inspired by biblical texts.

For this special collaborative performance, Aurora Orchestra joins forces with the BBC Singers for a programme which also includes a major new work by American composer Nico Muhly and Bach's joyful Magnificat, whose dazzling trumpets and soaring melodies promise a soul-stirring experience.

This is music which moves through worlds; ancient and modern, sacred and celebratory, spiritual and human.  

Part of Day of Psalms. Writer and artist Edmund de Waal curates a unique day celebrating the Psalms as songs of exile, diaspora, and devotion.