This year marks the 60th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, commissioned by Dean Walter Hussey for the 1965 Southern Cathedrals Festival. The milestone coincides with our 950th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a new plaque honouring Bernstein was unveiled on Saturday 17th May in the Cathedral Quarter, celebrating his lasting connection to Chichester.
The plaque was unveiled by celebrated Chichester resident Dame Patricia Routledge, who had the unforgettable privilege of working with Leonard Bernstein in 1976 and serves as patron of the commemorative plaque.
Dame Patricia commented: "This plaque is a timely recognition of the worldwide significance of this beautiful work. Chichester Psalms continues to resonate across generations, and it is only fitting that its legacy is honoured here, where it all began."
Created by esteemed stone carver Rob Jolly, the plaque is set into the wall between the Cathedral and The Prebendal School – a location that symbolises the Cathedral’s rich choral tradition and Bernstein’s lasting musical legacy. The Prebendal School, founded in the 15th Century, continues to provide choristers for the Cathedral Choir, carrying forward the tradition of exceptional music that Chichester Psalms so powerfully represents.
The plaque was organised by Bernstein in Chichester, the organisation that brought Bernstein’s legacy to the city in 2018 with a festival of events marking the composer’s 100th anniversary.
Bernstein in Chichester’s founding member Emma-Jane Wyatt commented: “It is important to establish a lasting commemoration to this great choral work. The city should be proud to bear its name in the work’s title, securing both Chichester's recognition worldwide and the bond that was established between one of the 20th century’s most important composers and the city.”
The Dean of Chichester, The Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler, reflected: "As we celebrate the Cathedral’s 950th anniversary, this plaque serves as a lasting tribute to one of the most cherished musical connections in our history. The Chichester Psalms continue to inspire choral musicians worldwide, and it is deeply moving to mark its 60th anniversary in the very place that gave it life. This moment not only honours Leonard Bernstein’s extraordinary legacy but also reaffirms the ongoing contribution of Chichester Cathedral to the choral tradition."
The unveiling ceremony was followed by a landmark concert at the Cathedral featuring a performance of Chichester Psalms by the Cathedral Choir, alongside the premiere of a brand-new choral commission by acclaimed composer Joanna Marsh.
As part of its commitment to secure the future of its choir and music, the Cathedral has announced a £950,000 match-funding campaign to sustain another 950 years of music in this anniversary year. To find out more and donate the fund click here.