Searching Out the Sacred

Episode image for Searching Out the Sacred

Episode 4 of 4, Sacred Music, Series 2

Duration: 1 hour

Simon Russell Beale returns to the UK to explore how three very different musical approaches to Christian music have captured the spiritual imagination of the nation. The composers James MacMillan, Sir John Tavener and John Rutter give a special insight into the challenges and rewards of writing sacred music for the 21st century. Music is performed by Harry Christophers and The Sixteen.

Last on

Sat 31 Jul 2010 15:50 BBC Two only on England, Wales

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  • Photo: James Macmillan and Simon Russell Beale

    Photo: James Macmillan and Simon Russell Beale

    Scottish classical composer and conductor James MacMillan with Simon Russell Beale at Douai Abbey - a Benedictine Abbey at Woolhampton, near Thatchan in Berkshire.

  • Photo: Sir John Tavener and Simon Russell Beale

    Photo: Sir John Tavener and Simon Russell Beale

    Simon Russell Beale meets Sir John Tavener at the composer's farm in Dorset. One of the highlights of Tavener's career - a cantata called The Whale, based on the biblical tale of Jonah - was initially released on Apple, the record label managed by The Beatles, in 1969.

  • Photo: Harry Christophers and John Rutter

    Photo: Harry Christophers and John Rutter

    Composer John Rutter (right) in a workshop discussion with conductor Harry Christophers and his choral group, The Sixteen, at St Bartholomew the Great in Smithfield, London.

Credits

Presenter
Simon Russell Beale
Director
Andy King-Dabbs
Producer
Andy King-Dabbs
Producer
Helen Mansfield

Broadcasts

See all broadcasts of Searching Out the Sacred (7)

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