Coventry Blitz 85th Anniversary – New Commission: Litany of Reconciliation

Today, Coventry Cathedral marked the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz with a moving Civic Service and Vigil, during which my new work Litany of Reconciliation received its world premiere. The piece was specially commissioned by Rachel Mahon for this significant occasion, and it was an honour to hear it performed by the Coventry Cathedral Choir within such a powerful and historic setting.

The Coventry Blitz of 14 November 1940 remains deeply woven into the identity of the city. The ruins of the old Cathedral, destroyed that night, stand beside the new building as a profound symbol of both loss and renewal. At the heart of the Cathedral’s mission is the Litany of Reconciliation, a text recited every weekday at midday, as a call to forgiveness, healing, and peace.

My setting is mostly solemn and dissonant, reflecting the darker side of humanity – the hatred which divides nation from nation. Threaded through this texture is a simple unison refrain: “Father, forgive.” In the end, the soundworld becomes more open and compassionate, with the colours softening towards warmth and tenderness.

I am deeply grateful to Rachel Mahon and the Coventry Cathedral Choir for their beautiful and heartfelt performance – it was a privilege to have contributed music to such a meaningful commemoration.