Ascension Jazzmass

Brecon based composer Rod Paton was originally commissioned to write this piece by Bishop Otter College Chichester to celebrate its 150th anniversary. The Ascension Jazzmass was first performed in the college’s Chapel of the Ascension on Ascension day in 1990. Since then it has received numerous performances including Brighton Festival (1993), St. James, Picadilly (1995) and in The Turner Sims Concert Hall, Southampton University (2000).

Although originally intended as a short mass (Missa Brevis) it grew during its composition into something of an epic, scored for Soloist, 4-part Choir, Jazz Ensemble, Organ and 21 xylophones, extending to just under 2 hours in length.

The concert will feature the New Ascension Singers, soloist Vivien Ellis, pianist Huw Warren and organist Stephen Power. Double bass player Paula Gardiner is leading musicians from The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. These musicians are 

Dan Vause - alto sax

Paul Mason - tenor/flute

Matthew Smith - french horn

Liz Exell - drums

Tom Williams - percussion

The composition draws upon wide-ranging musical influences. Jane Clark a Brighton writer and poet described it as “A kaleidoscope of sound and colour.” when it was originally performed there.