A summer evening of colour, rhythm and joy awaited audiences at St Alban the Martyr Church, Westcliff-on-Sea, on Saturday 12th July 2025, as Southend Bach Choir brought the uplifting music of Sir John Rutter to life in a concert featuring Magnificat and Feel the Spirit.

Conducted by Roger Humphrey and accompanied by Rosemary Pennington, the programme celebrated Rutter’s unmistakable choral voice — radiant, lyrical and full of energy. The first half was devoted to the vibrant Magnificat, a work inspired by Latin American rhythms and written as a joyful song of praise. Its mix of exuberant choruses, reflective moments and lyrical solos created a richly colourful opening to the evening.

Following a short interval, the mood shifted to the warmth and emotional depth of Feel the Spirit. This much-loved suite of spirituals invited both performers and audience to engage with music rooted in hope, resilience and faith, moving from moments of stillness in Steal Away and Deep River to the infectious joy of Joshua fit the battle of Jericho and When the Saints Go Marching In.

The concert featured mezzo-soprano Helena Paish as guest soloist, whose expressive singing added both intimacy and power to the evening’s music. Under Roger Humphrey’s direction, the choir delivered a performance that balanced precision with warmth, filling the church with sound and spirit.

Set in the welcoming surroundings of St Alban the Martyr Church, the concert was a joyful celebration of choral music and shared experience — a summer evening full of colour, connection and that unmistakable Rutter sparkle.