Kingston Choral Society, under the vibrant and versatile baton of Andrew Griffiths, is joined by Sophie Bevan and Roderick Williams, two of the brightest stars of the British singing firmament, for a programme suffused with musical colour and profound emotion.

Brahms’ A German Requiem and Poulenc’s Gloria, composed a century apart, express the joys and sorrows of being human.

His mother’s death, compounded Brahms’ raw grief at the loss of his friend and mentor Robert Schumann nine years earlier to inspire this beautiful musical meditation on the tragedy of death. Brahms’ intensely personal ‘Requiem for Humanity’ responds to the tragedy of mortality with a radiant affirmation of the consolation of faith.

Poulenc’s Gloria has astonished, delighted and shocked audiences since its 1961 premiere: joyous and playful, charming, strident and sombre, Poulenc’s musical pyrotechnics are stunning.

Tonight’s return to Cadogan Hall marks Kingston Choral Society’s 75th anniversary.