Stainer’s Crucifixion

Good Friday Celebration

This is the 137^th  annual performance in St Marylebone Parish Church of The Crucifixion, which was dedicated to the choir of this parish church by Sir John Stainer in 1887. 

Through all the various liturgical changes of the last century and no matter what difference in musical tastes our liturgy has reflected during that time, Stainer’s oratorio has remained unchanged and continues as a central feature of our worship in Holy Week. 

In former years the oratorio was performed daily during Holy Week, and twice on Good Friday.  Perhaps such intensive exposure would weaken the strong emotive power of the work today – but all who attend the annual performance are enriched by the intense spiritual message it brings. 

Stainer would have known the St Marylebone choir as a large, voluntary choir of men and boys; today’s choir is a professional mixed-voice ensemble which sings at the Sunday Eucharist and many special services throughout the year, as well as for concerts and other events.

Free Admission