Manchester Cathedral Summer Autumn
2015
Contents
3
Introduction
4
Music at Manchester Cathedral
8
Events at Manchester Cathedral
12 Food and Drink at Manchester Cathedral
14
Summer Walks and Tours
16
Art and Exhibitions
20
Cathedral Services
22
Further Information
1421–1422 CATHEDRAL TIMELINE
The parish church becomes a Collegiate Foundation, granted a charter by King Henry V and dedicated to St Mary, St Denys and St George.
3
Introduction
Manchester 1421 Henry V, King of England, signed the charter granting permission to build a collegiate church on the site of the parish church of St Mary’s. The church was established with a warden, eight fellows, four singing clerks and six choristers. The living quarters were on the site where Chetham’s Library now stands. The church was dedicated to St Mary, St George and St Denys.
Manchester 1847 Queen Victoria was on the throne and the town dominated the global cotton trade. There was a huge growth in population as people were drawn to the new factories and mills. A new Church of England Diocese of Manchester was formed and the church raised to cathedral status.
Manchester Cathedral 2015 This Grade 1 listed masterpiece has survived King Henry VIII’s Reformation and two World Wars; heard one of the first public speeches to decry the world slave trade and witnessed the Industrial Revolution on its doorstep. Services take place daily in the medieval quire as they have for nearly 600 years. The walls of this church tell the story of its city. That story continues to unfold.
This is Manchester’s Cathedral. Not to be missed.
1545–1547 King Henry VIII undertakes an inventory of all the goods in the ancient churches. The College is dissolved and the Chantries discontinued.
Music at Manchester Cathedral Musicians and audiences from all over the world continue to be moved and inspired by performances in this magnificent, medieval setting. This summer Manchester Cathedral plays host to a wide range of daytime and evening concerts, most of which are FREE.
Concert by Queen’s University Symphony Orchestra, Belfast Mon 22 June 1.45pm FREE / No tickets required
Evensong sung by Robinson College Chapel Choir, Cambridge Mon 22 June 5.30pm FREE / No tickets required
Show your support for this exciting student orchestra’s summer tour, taking in Manchester and Liverpool. The 70-strong orchestra has lined up an exhilarating programme, featuring the popular Karelia Suite by Sibelius as well as adding some current pieces ‘from the world of musicals’ into the mix.
Manchester Cathedral encourages other choirs to come and enjoy the historic splendour of its 15th century quire. A warm welcome is extended to Robinson College Chapel Choir who will be singing music by Herbert Howells and William Harris. Visitors are politely asked not to take photographs during the service.
1553 The College is re-established by Queen Mary I, under the same terms as the first Charter.
their programme, Norwegian Moods - from Grieg to Nystedt. This promises to be a great evening.
Pipe Down Organ Recital Sat 27 June / Sat 4 July 6.15pm (following Evensong) FREE / No tickets required
Manchester Cathedral Choristers Mon 29 June 1.10pm FREE / No tickets required
The funding for a new organ has been secured and this year the process of dismantling the existing organ begins. This is a series of farewell recitals by Christopher Stokes, Organist and Master of the Choristers and fellow musicians who have a fond affection for a musical instrument which has served the Cathedral well for the last half a century.
Liven up your lunch hour with this exciting new work, ‘You are the Mirror’ written by Kora-player and singer Holly Marland and directed by Organist and Master of the Choristers, Christopher Stokes. Holly will accompany the Choristers on the Kora. The performance will include a soliloquy for double bass composed by Holly Marland and Michael Cretu.
1578–1595 The Church receives its Third Charter from Queen Elizabeth I, the College is renamed Christ’s College. Dr John Dee, Alchemist and sometime spy for Elizabeth is appointed Warden.
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Over the last ten years the Oslo Oslo Philharmonic Choir Philharmonic Choir has performed most Fri 26 June of the major, symphonic choral works in music literature. Today the choir is 7pm considered one of the Nordic region’s best FREE / symphonic choirs, receiving excellent reviews from critics, audience and conductors alike. The No tickets required choir, conducted by Oystein Fevang, will present
Chetham’s Sinfonia and Ensembles Tue 30 June 7.30pm £10 (£5 concessions) Tickets
Chetham’s Sinfonia presents the third in a series of three concerts featuring Glazunov’s The Seasons. Lower-school concerto finalist, Leah Nicholson, performs the first movement of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 alongside performances from the Saxophone Choir, Wind Band and Violetta Strings.
www.thelittleboxoffice.com/chethams Rebecca is a graduate of the Royal Saturday Coffee Concerts Northern College of Music. In 2010 she was invited to continue her studies Rebecca Robertson in France with renowned trumpet soloist Sat 19 September Thierry Caens. Since her return to England at the end of 2012, Rebecca has rapidly 11am established herself as a trumpet soloist and FREE / chamber musician. A former member of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, No tickets required Rebecca was awarded the prize and title of Kirklees Young Musician of the Year in 2009.
LOW Special guests Two Gallants Wed 7 October Doors opens 7pm
This is the first visit to Manchester Cathedral for Minnesota minimalists LOW. Brilliant acoustics and a perfect setting for the band to play their new album. Ones and Sixes is due for release on September 11 by independent Seattle based label SUBPOP. Special guests Two Gallants hail from San Francisco. The band’s name comes from the title of a story by James Joyce in Dubliners.
www.alt-tickets.co.uk/low-tickets
1617 Humphrey Booth of Salford pays for a gallery in the south aisle. The Booth Centre supporting those in need has a close affiliation with the Cathedral to this day.
www.alt-tickets.co.uk
DHP Family and Academy Events are proud to announce the return of a band to Manchester Cathedral. The Fun Lovin’ Criminals ability to merge and transcend genres saw them become one of the most unique and exciting groups when they formed in the nineties. They will resurrect in all its glory one of the most important albums of 1996, Come Find Yourself. Twenty years later this debut release for the group sounds as fresh and vibrant as it did that year, when it spent almost 12 months in the UK chart.
Come Find Yourself is a record where each and every track you remember within the first few notes, and so many memorable lyrics. It’s one of those clever releases that transports you back to the time and yet is ageless and ready for a new audience of fans to fall in love with it all over again. A long lasting and unforgettable cocktail of music with a nod to hip hop, rock, blues, jazz, funk and soul; with Huey Morgan’s extensive knowledge and collection of music it’s hardly surprising that this seminal album has such a wide foundation of influence. Huey Morgan says: “After 20 years, Come Find Yourself will be played live in its entirety for the first time. Our debut album burned a path for crossing genres that we now take for granted. The music is now part of our collective lexicon and we are very proud to be able to play it live and share our love of diversity which we have always, as a band, championed.”
1636–1649 King Charles I grants a Fourth Charter but in the Civil War the church is ransacked.
1787 Thomas Clarkson delivers the world’s first anti-slavery speech.
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Come Find Yourself 20th Anniversary Tour: Fun Lovin’ Criminals Thu 26 February Doors open 7pm
Medieval safaris with mini guide Blaise Fri 31 July / Fri 7August 2pm Suitable for ages 4–12 Blaise, the Cathedral’s youngest tour guide at 10 years of age, will take families on safari around the Cathedral on the hunt for some of the many strange and exotic creatures and beasts to be found inside and outside the Cathedral.
Carrot City and Seed Bombing at Manchester Cathedral Fri 31 July–Mon 31 August FREE The University of Salford brings the Carrot City exhibition from its world-wide tour to one of the ‘greenest’ cathedrals in England. Visit this showcase of Urban Agriculture initiatives from around the world: vertical and rooftop gardening, community gardens and allotments and many other examples of urban growing make up the exhibition. There will also be opportunities for you to ‘green up your city’ and make and throw your own seed bombs!
The Green Man Hunt Fri 31 July / Fri 7 August 10am-12noon and 2pm-4pm Suitable for ages 4–12 FREE Who and what were the Green Men? Why are these rather peculiar green faces looking down at you from the walls and pillars of over 1000 medieval buildings in England? Pick up a pair of binoculars and join the trail to meet Manchester’s own Green Men and then craft your very own version in clay to take home.
Afternoon Tea with the Friends of Manchester Cathedral Sat 1 August 2pm–4pm FREE / No tickets required Join the Friends of Manchester Cathedral for afternoon tea with cake. Hear more about the excursions and outings organised by the Friends and the incredible impact of their continued support in preserving and celebrating this historic building.
Archive+ Family Tree Workshops Sat 1 August 12pm–4pm FREE / No tickets required Join the team from Central Library’s Archive+ to make a friends and family tree. Archive+ will bring material showing traditional family trees from the past for you to then have a go at creating a 21st century tree for the future. Suitable for adults and children.
Meet the Beekeeper Wed 5 August / Wed 12 August 2pm FREE / No tickets required Join Canon Apiarist Adrian Rhodes to find out how we look after the colonies of bees on the roof and do our bit for these fascinating creatures. The bees return the favour by providing the Cathedral with our own brand of Heavenly Honey.
1940 A blitz during the Second World War destroys most of the north-east of the Cathedral and causes extensive damage to the rest of the building. Post-war restoration takes almost 20 years.
Myth and Legend in Medieval Manchester (Talk) Sat 12 September 11am FREE / No tickets required
Joshua Brookes and the Missing Grooms (Drama) Sat 12 September 12.30pm and 1.30pm FREE / No tickets required
Grace Timperley introduces the first in a new series of talks on Manchester Cathedral’s position at the heart of the city’s medieval past. This talk will offer an introduction to the medieval history of the building and take a closer look at some of the myths and legends memorialised in the magnificent architecture and decoration.
The legendary chaplain, Joshua Brookes found himself in the middle of an explosion in the population of Manchester during the Industrial Revolution. There was a huge demand on this church for marriages and other services, as this was the only church for miles around. How did Joshua Brookes, a great Manchester character, cope with this intriguing dilemma in the city’s history? Sit in the medieval quire and prepare to be thoroughly entertained and amused by this mini-drama from the popular Voices from the Past series.
Grace is a doctoral student at the University of Manchester and works at Manchester Cathedral. She is currently researching Middle English inheritance romances, and children in medieval literature.
By Royal Charter Sat 12 September 12pm–4pm FREE / No tickets required A rare opportunity to see the original royal charters granted by King Henry V, Queen Elizabeth I and King Charles I on display behind the scenes in the Cathedral Library.
1976–1995 The West Windows are replaced in stained glass by the artist Antony Hollaway.
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Heritage Open Days
Food and Drink at Manchester Cathedral Manchester Cathedral Summer Barbecue Sun 5 July 12-3pm FREE / ALL WELCOME Every once in a while it is rather wonderful to escape this beautiful interior and enjoy the gardens in this rather lovely part of the city. Bring your family, friends, visitors and neighbours along to one of the most welcoming events in Manchester’s summer calendar. Enjoy an afternoon of food and drink, craft stalls and face painting in the historic medieval quarter. All food and drink is FREE, donations politely requested.
Hosting Events at Manchester Cathedral Manchester Cathedral’s medieval splendour offers one of the most atmospheric venues in the city to host your event. We can now also offer the beautifully refurbished meeting rooms in the Cathedral Visitor Centre, as well as grand gala dinners and conferences set within the Cathedral itself.
The Manchester Food and Drink Festival Gala Dinner and Awards in Partnership with Harvey Nichols Mon 21 September Tickets www.foodanddrinkfestival.com Manchester Cathedral is delighted to play host to the Manchester Food and Drink Festival Gala Dinner and Awards for the 2015 festival. Harvey Nichols will be providing dinner and are already busy curating a bespoke Manchester banquet for the occasion. Awards will be presented in 12 categories this year. Restaurants and bars, historic eateries and new arrivals are all invited to visit the website and put themselves forward for consideration at these prestigious awards. The full programme of city-wide events for the festival will be available online from August.
Visit www.events.manchestercathedral.org
1996 An IRA bomb explodes close to the Cathedral and causes further damage.
Wine Fair Fri 20 November 2015 Tickets ÂŁ25 / Bookings on 0161 832 8222 Photo: Lesley Chalmers
Photo: Paul Feeley
Join our knowledgeable guides to find out more about the Cathedral’s fascinating history and some of the characters, dead and alive, who bring this Grade 1 listed building to life. Group bookings: We offer a wide range of general and themed tours for groups interested in visiting Manchester Cathedral. All groups must be pre-booked to avoid disappointment. A donation of £3 per person is requested to cover administration costs. Contact Visitor Services: visitors@manchestercathedral.org
General Taster Tours Daily Mon–Sat 11am and 2pm FREE / Suggested donation £3 per person A history etched in stained glass Fri 17 July 11am FREE / No tickets required Manchester Cathedral’s ‘wall of light’ and stunning collection of stained-glass windows explored.
Manchester Cathedral Decoded Sat 18 July / Sat 25 July 11am FREE / No tickets required
Stories behind the stones Sun 19 July 2pm £3 / Pay on the door
A brand new tour revealing some of the eccentric characters and history in the monuments, plaques, tombs and statues.
Inspired: The Manchester Cathedral Poetry Trail Sat 22 August 11am £3 / Pay on the door
Resident Poet Rachel Mann leads a tour of the Cathedral with local poets, reading their works inspired by the building and its heritage. A programme highlight, not to be missed.
Crack the codes, uncover the symbols and marvel at the myths, mysteries and legends hidden within the Cathedral fabric.
‘I lived here all my life but…’ Sat 18 July 2pm FREE / No tickets required
If you have lived in Manchester all your life but have not yet set foot in the Cathedral – now is your chance. This tour brings the characters from history to life with lots of interesting stories about the role of a 14th century church in a 21st century city. So the next time you have friends or relatives over – you’ll know where to take them. All welcome.
Photo: Helena Jones
2001 The Cathedral Visitor Centre was opened in 2001 by HM Queen Elizabeth II.
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Summer Walks and Tours
Art and Exhibitions Capture the Cathedral Photography Fri 12 June–Mon 13 July FREE / No tickets required There are some outstanding contributions from the winners and finalists in this year’s photography competition. The exhibition showcases over 40 pieces of work across the three entry categories: Architecture and Stained Glass, Something Different and Manchester Cathedral at Night. The judges have had their say – now it’s your turn to vote for your favourite.
The Return of the Prodigal Son by Ghislaine Howard Fri 14 August–Sun 20 September FREE / No tickets required Creative Arts Evening Fri 18 September 7pm FREE / No tickets required Local artist, Ghislaine Howard was named ‘Woman of the Year’ in 2008 for her contribution to art and society. Join hosts Ghislaine and husband Michael for an evening of music, poetry and discussion as the artist talks about her work and how she was inspired to create this moving interpretation of the well-known bible story.
2004 The Healing Window by Linda Walton is installed. The gift of Dr Anthony Enoch.
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Manchester Academy of Fine Arts Summer Exhibition Sat 11 July–Sun 9 Aug
Exhibition Tours led by MAFA Presidents Sat 18 July Gerry Halpin Sat 8 August John McCombs 2pm FREE / No tickets required Manchester Cathedral is delighted to welcome back Manchester Academy of Fine Arts, founded in 1859. The Academy’s outstanding contribution to the cultural life of the city is well documented: its members’ work is in iconic buildings such as Manchester Town Hall and murals and sculptures across the city. It was also responsible for the only art exhibitions to be staged in Manchester during the two World Wars. The Cathedral’s architect responsible for the post-war restoration work, Hubert Worthington, was also a member. This summer’s exhibition features the work of painters, printmakers and sculptors, all elected members, who represent some of the best in contemporary fine art in the north.
World War One Commemorative Events The Tree of War Sat 22 August 3pm FREE / No tickets required The Tree of War is a music and drama production following the lives of two local lads and their experiences on the front line up to and including the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Written by Cathedral Poet Rachel Mann and Oliver Mills this is a wonderful opportunity to catch some highlights from the show due to go on tour later in the year. Expect a stellar performances from this talented cast of actors as the two young friends exchange their suburban Manchester lives for the battlefields of World War One.
Wilfred Owen: The Soldier’s Story by Anthony and Lorraine Brown Fri 25 September–Sun 29 November Regiment Chapel FREE / No tickets required The centrepiece of this exhibition is a stunning portrait of Wilfred Owen, soldier and war poet. He served in the Manchester Regiment and was awarded the Military Cross for his courage and bravery. He was killed one week before the war ended on 4 November 1918. Owen’s handwritten letters and poems form the backdrop of an oil painting detailing a ‘diary’ of his life and presenting an honest and powerful view of the enormity of war and its impact on the individual, the family, and everyday lives. This portrait is part of the 100 Heads Thinking As One touring exhibition of mixed-media portraits. Coming soon…
War Requiem. Benjamin Britten and Wilfred Owen’s War Poetry
Further details to be announced in the autumn.
Cathedral Services Alongside the many events at the Cathedral, three acts of worship take place every day as they have for centuries. Regardless of whether you are a person of faith or not, you are most welcome to attend a service and come and enjoy the beauty and magnificence of the building. The Lady Chapel is reserved for quiet prayer or reflection. Please check the Cathedral website for the service times during school holidays.
Turning of the Leaves The Turning of the Leaves ceremony takes place every alternate Wednesday at 12.45pm in the Regiment Chapel. A page is turned in the Book of Remembrance for the Duke of Lancaster Regiment and servicemen who have died in service are remembered. For dates please visit www.manchestercathedral.org
Evensong at Manchester Cathedral Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 5.30pm
You are warmly invited to attend the Evensong service which takes place in the Quire, or just to sit in the church and enjoy one of the ‘not to be missed’ musical performances in Manchester. The quality of the Choir is recognised nationally with regular broadcasts on BBC Radio 3. The Cathedral is also fortunate to have an excellent Voluntary Choir who sing at the Sunday Evensong service. Manchester Cathedral would like to welcome Visiting Choirs for several dates over the summer. If you are interested, please email the Sub-Organist, Geoffrey Woollatt: geoffrey.woollatt@manchestercathedral.org
Please note that Evensong is replaced with Evening Prayer during the school holidays.
2013 Cathedral closes for new underfloor heating system and ‘Pop-Up’ Cathedral opens. November 2013 Cathedral re-opens with the installation ceremony of the new Bishop of Manchester, David Walker.
Manchester Cathedral Choir is directed by the Organist and Master of the Choristers, Christopher Stokes. It is unusual in being one of only two choirs in the UK that has a treble line made up of both boys and girls aged between 8 and 14. The Choristers are educated at Chetham’s School of Music, next door to the Cathedral. The Choir’s new CD ‘A Year at Manchester’ is now available from St Denys’ bookshop at the Cathedral or HMV Manchester. It is also available from the online shop on the Cathedral’s website.
Choristerships Each year we look to offer Choristerships to four girls or boys aged between 8 and 10. All our Choristers attend Chetham’s School of Music and receive an excellent musical and general education there, in addition to the first-class musical training from Cathedral’s staff. Potential Choristers do not need any prior experience to audition for the Choir. We are looking for children who enjoy singing, being part of a close-knit team and who, with their parents, will commit to a demanding but immensely rewarding schedule.
The Manchester Cathedral Choir is regularly invited to sing at a number of venues and events including their highly acclaimed recent performance at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. For an informal chat and to find out more: Call Christopher Stokes on 0161 833 2220 extension 225
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Manchester Cathedral Choir
Further Information Manchester Cathedral is launching a series of pilot TV programmes as it explores setting up a television channel. The first programme in the series is presented by Rob McLoughlin, recently awarded an OBE for his services to broadcasting. Visit www.manchestercathedral.org/manchester-cathedral-tv
Education and Families at Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral is a rich educational resource for schools and colleges. Trails, workshops and activities for children of all ages, backgrounds and abilities are designed and led by the Education Officer, who is an experienced teacher. Our educational trails include Medieval Manchester, Tudor Trails and Tell me a story. There are also combined visits with other places of worship. Visits can be tailored to students’ needs and interests.
A free Explorer Trail Backpack, complete with activity sheet, binoculars and spyglasses is available to families to borrow during most holidays and weekends. Check our website for details of this and other special activities including brass rubbing and arts and craft activities for family and community groups. Contact education.officer@manchestercathedral.org
Manchester Cathedral Mini Guide Blaise
2014 Funds are secured for a new organ thanks to a major donation by the Stoller Charitable Trust.
We could not offer the excellent level of welcome and hospitality without our fantastic team of dedicated volunteers. If you would like to join our team and have three hours each week to spare, we welcome applications for voluntary roles in the following areas: welcoming, administration, hospitality, flower arranging, event support and education.
Volition
Our award winning Volition charity programme has had an incredible success rate, in helping those that are currently out of work and looking for a route back into employment. Check the Cathedral website or speak to your local Jobcentre Plus advisor for more information. Visit www.manchestercathedral.org
Friends of Manchester Cathedral
The Friends’ Association has been supporting the Dean and Chapter of Manchester Cathedral since 1937. New members are always welcome to join and take an active interest in the development of this ancient church. As well as supporting Cathedral life, members meet for social events and go on a number of trips throughout the year. Pick up a leaflet from the Cathedral or ask for details at the main office.
2021 Manchester Cathedral celebrates 600 year anniversary of the Henry V Charter.
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Volunteering at Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral
Visitor Centre
How to find us Open daily from 8.30am Address: V ictoria St, M3 1SX Metrolink: Victoria Station or Shudehill Parking:
re-book Q-Park Deansgate North P online using code MC1421 and receive a 10% discount
Visit www.manchestercathedral.org Find facebook.com/ManchesterCathedral Follow twitter@ManCathedral Call 0161 833 2220
Do not miss the Cathedral Visitor Centre and this charming contemporary take on the traditional British tearoom. The menu boasts show-stopping afternoon teas and cakes alongside a range of salads, sandwiches and homemade soups. If you are celebrating a special occasion or just having a catch up with friends, you can order up a bottle of Prosecco or take a picnic out onto the lawn to add to the party spirit. With their Clandestine Cake Club and Delusional cuppas ProperTea is one of the quirkiest cafes in Manchester, brought to you by tea fanatic and popular broadcaster Yvette Fielding.
General Admission FREE
St Denys’ Book & Gift Shop It costs around £2800 each day to run the Cathedral. We do not charge a general admission fee and we would like to keep it that way. If you enjoy your visit we would be delighted if you would consider leaving a donation of £3 in one of the donation boxes. Many thanks.
Pop downstairs to this hidden gem in the basement of the Visitor Centre. Shop owners Penny and Sue offer a wealth of experience in the book trade, exceptional service and a great selection of books, Cathedral souvenirs and greeting cards.
Hanging Bridge Don’t miss a visit to the original 15th-century Hanging Bridge, listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It is a rare survival of a medieval structure in the city centre and can be seen at close quarters from inside St Denys’ Bookshop.
Hanging Ditch Wine Merchants
Designed by Transmission www.transmissioncreative.co.uk
Take a tour of the Cathedral and receive a voucher for a 10% discount on a glass of wine at this award-winning Vinoteca. Enjoy the finest wines by the glass or buy from the impressive selection of quality wines from across the globe.