The Armed Man

Overview

Canberra Choral Society and The National Capital Orchestra are excited to be joining forces again to present two very special works for chorus and orchestra, 'The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace' by beloved British composer Sir Karl Jenkins, and 'Human Waves' by legendary Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin AO. Invoking peace and harmony, this afternoon concert will be performed under the baton of NCO Music Director Louis Sharpe, with soloists Jillian Halleron (Soprano) and Liam Meany (Cello).

Commissioned for the millennium year by The Royal Armouries, United Kingdom, Sir Karl's 'The Armed Man' has been performed over 3000 times worldwide since its premiere at the Royal Albert Hall in April 2000. Based on the 15th century French poem L'homme Armé, it remains a powerful and moving reflection on the horror and consequences of war. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the premiere and coincides with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

'Human Waves', commissioned as part of Sydney Philharmonia Choirs' centenary program, is one of the larger and more complex works Elena Kats-Chernin has created. With a libretto by Tamara-Anna Cislowska, it reflects on the rich legacy of Australia's migrant history and celebrates our cultural diversity. Audiences will be particularly delighted by the energetic "Ode to the salty paste" (the iconic Vegemite) midway through the work.