Marking the 40th anniversary of The Worcester Pilgrim, with a new work by composer Ian Venables, commissioned by the English Music Festival.

To mark the 40th anniversary of the discovery of The Worcester Pilgrim, the Dean and Chapter cordially invite you to a special commemorative event featuring the UK premiere of a new work by composer Ian Venables, commissioned by the English Music Festival.

Thursday 12 November 2026

6.30pm to 7.30pm

The Chapter House, Worcester Cathedral

Tickets £25

All are warmly welcomed to join evensong at 5.30pm. Following evensong, there will be a blessing of The Worcester Pilgrim plaque.

The commemorative event will begin at 6.30pm in the Chapter House.

The programme will include a series of short talks exploring the contemporary significance of pilgrimage, the discovery of the medieval pilgrim, and the story behind the composition of The Worcester Pilgrim.

The talks will be followed by a performance of The Worcester Pilgrim for violin and two narrators. The Dean of Worcester, Stephen Edwards, and Em Marshall-Luck will be joined by the distinguished violinist Rupert Marshall-Luck.

The evening will conclude with drinks and canapés.

Funds raised through this event will go towards The John Paul Hoskins Choral Scholar Appeal. As a tribute to our former Precentor John Paul Hoskins, and his life-long love and support of cathedral music. This fund will guarantee the appointment of one scholar (alto, tenor or bass), awarded solely on ability and merit, per academic year for the next six years.

To learn more about Worcester Cathedral's John Paul Hoskins Choral Scholar Appeal please visit: The John Paul Hoskins Choral Scholar Appeal (https://www.worcestercathedral.org.uk/support-us/the-john-paul-hoskins-choral-scholar-appeal).

A Reg. Charity No.1207427. Reg. Address: The Old Palace, Deansway, Worcester WR1 2JE.

Photo of Ian Venables by Graham Walland.

Description supplied by the event organiser.