Belfast Philharmonic Choir: All Souls Concert

Belfast Philharmonic Choir’s Season Opener:  Fauré, Poulenc, Pärt, Rutter

The Belfast Philharmonic Choir open their 2025/26 season with a powerful evening of reflection, light, and remembrance in the stunning Gothic Revival setting of St Peter’s Cathedral. 

All Souls brings together five transcendent works that speak to the soul across time and culture: 

• Gabriel Fauré’s radiant Cantique de Jean Racine and beautiful Pavane.
• Francis Poulenc’s Litanies à la Vierge Noire, inspired by the ancient legend of the Black Virgin of Rocamadour — a symbol of protection, renewal, and enduring faith. 
• Arvo Pärt’s luminous Berlin Mass celebrating his 90th birthday this year.
• Sir John Rutter’s heartfelt Requiem, the centrepiece of the evening, performed in honour of the composer’s 80th birthday year and 40 years since its first performance. 

Rutter’s Requiem, a modern choral classic, offers lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and moments of serene stillness — a personal expression of hope and consolation that continues to uplift audiences worldwide. Never more fitting than framed by the soft light of October, the beauty of St Peter’s Cathedral and performed here in its full orchestral version. 

Fauré’s works bring elegance and radiance, Poulenc adds mysticism, and Pärt offers meditative purity. Together, they weave a programme of remembrance, stillness, and renewal. 

Join the Belfast Philharmonic Choir in the glorious surroundings of St Peter’s Cathedral as they mark the beginning of a new season — and pay tribute to four extraordinary composers whose music continues to resonate across generations.