Step back in time, to fifteenth century England.  Join this pilgrimage through the world medieval music and literature – a journey inspired by the discovery of a manuscript in Lambath Palace containing an office for Saint Cæcelia’s day according to the Use of York (Eboracum ). The programme is structured into three nocturns, each with three readings.  The story of the Saint unfolds with a steady rhythm:  polyphony, reading, chant.

The polyphony is entirely from the 15th century. Each nocturn begins with a work by Johannes de Lymburgia, showcasing early 1400s continental style. The readings are taken from the Canterbury Tales.  The Second Nun begins her story by admonishing us about the dangers of idle evenings, explaining how she herself has used her time to translate the legend of Saint Cæcelia.

Although the Use of York is moribund, plainsong continues to flow through the heart of a living musical tradition.  Despite being more ancient than this evening’s polyphony, it may, therefore, still sound more familiar.