Thornesian Prize 2005
The prize was founded in memory of Kathleen Slater, who died in 2002 from Parkinson’s Disease. The aim of the prize is to raise both awareness of the illness and funds for the Parkinson’s Disease Society through the promotion of new choral music, something close to Kathleen’s heart. Kathleen’s grandson, Christopher Larley, is the director of the Chantry Quire.
The winner of the 2005 Thornesian Prize is John Lawson Baker, from Ely, England, with his entry I saw Eternity the Other Night. Runner up is Ralph Woodward, with Hear my crying, O God. Ralph comes from Cambridge, also in England.
The two pieces will be performed in a concert incorporating other music - including the first part of Handel's Messiah - on Saturday 25th June. The concert takes place in St. Paul's Church, Chichester, and tickets are available from larley@ukonline.co.uk
The Thornesian Prize is a biennial composition competition in association with Chantry Quire, a Chichester based chamber choir.
2003's winner was Alan Smith, from Burgess Hill. Alan's entry Sing We To This Merry Company is an upbeat setting for choir and organ. This contrasts with the runner-up Jacques Cohen, whose work Cradle Song is a very tranquil, reflective piece.