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We are a small congregation commemorating the 400th anniversary of the death of the village's Elizabethan composer, William Byrd (c.1540 - 1623).

We are planning to erect a permanent memorial to Byrd to mark the quatercentenary since his death, and have begun a fundraising appeal. Our events this year have included a talk on The Life and Times of William Byrd (30 June), including book release; a Commemorative Service of BCP Evensong (2 July); and, welcomed The Stondon Singers who gave a sell-out William Byrd Anniversary Concert on the actual day (4 July). Stondon Massey has also featured on BBC Radio 3's 'Composer of the Week' programme (3-7 July).

This website contains everything you need to know about William Byrd's life and music as well as his links with Stondon Massey. /

Saturday, 25 March 2023

Westminster Cathedral Byrd Celebration


In the context of worship, the Roman Catholic Westminster Cathedral is performing Byrd's Gradualia throughout 2023.   Yesterday (Friday 24 March) was the Vigil Mss of the Annunciation which commemorates when the angel Gabriel came to Mary to ask her the bear a son named Jesus.  25 March is known as Lady Day in both the Christian and legal calendar.  At the service the Propers for the Annunciation were sung by the full Cathedral Choir as well as the Kyrie, Gloria and Agnus Dei from the Mass for Five Parts. For more information, brochure etc, follow this link: William Byrd - 400th Anniversary - Westminster Cathedral

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