Almost a century has passed since the Battle of the Somme, one of the largest offensives of the Western Front in the First World War where more than 1 million men were wounded or killed.

It included men from County Durham — and especially with the horrific losses borne by the Durham Light Infantry. Of the 15,000 soldiers of the DLI who took part in the battle, over half were wounded, killed, or reported missing.

Durham Hymns

As part of the county's commemorative events, the Northern Regional Brass Band Trust is marking the anniversary with a significant new work for brass band and choir, entitled, 'The Durham Hymns'.

They have commissioned the Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, to write the lyrics for a suite of new hymns inspired by the personal letters, diaries and experiences of real people living in the county at the time.

Music

Music has been commissioned from contemporary composers Orlando Gough and Jessica Curry, as well as Jonathan Bates of Black Dyke Band, to open the concert — in an evocative response to composer George Butterworth's 'The Banks of Green Willow'.

Butterworth, one of the most promising composers of his generation, was killed during the Somme offensive. His best known work, 'The Banks of Green Willow', became synonymous with the sacrifice of his generation and has been seen as an anthem for all 'Unknown Soldiers'.

Choir and brass band

The hymns will be performed by a newly created community choir and brass band, drawn from the Northern Regional Brass Band Trust's extensive membership, together with one of the region's most celebrated choral ensembles, Voices of Hope.

'The Durham Hymns' will not only commemorate the sacrifice of those who died, but also the courage and resilience of those left behind and offer an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and the impact of the war on subsequent generations.

Premiere

The Durham Hymns premieres at Durham Cathedral on Saturday 16 July, 7.30pm

Tickets:
Nave: £20.00 (£15.00 concessions)
Font: £18.00 (£13.00 concessions)

Available from The Gala Theatre Box Office: 0300 026 6600

And on-line at www.galadurham.co.uk

'The Durham Hymns' will not only commemorate the sacrifice of those who died, but also the courage and resilience of those left behind4BR

Support

The Durham Hymns project is commissioned by the Northern Regional Brass Band Trust in partnership with Durham County Council.

It is supported by additional funding from Arts Council England, Heritage Lottery Fund and Durham County Council.