The UK Parliament Choir set to perform a historic concert for VE Day 80th Anniversary in Parliament
The Victory in Europe Day Anniversary Concert will take place on May 7th at 19:30 in Westminster Hall at the Palace of Westminster. Tickets are available for sale at www.parliamentchoir.org.uk
London, 15 April 2025 – On the evening of 7th May 1945, a newsflash announced that the following day would mark Victory in Europe. Eighty years to the day, the Parliament Choir and the Sinfonia Smith Square will perform an uplifting Victory in Europe Day Anniversary Concert in the iconic Westminster Hall at the Palace of Westminster to commemorate this historic milestone.
The concert will be held on May 7th at 19:30, in the presence of HRH The Duke of Kent, and is part of the four-day official programme of events marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe. Tickets are available to the general public and can be purchased at www.parliamentchoir.org.uk.
The concert is supported by Amazon.
The 100-strong UK Parliament Choir, supported by the orchestra of Sinfonia Smith Square and conducted by the Parliament Choir’s Composer-in-Residence and Chorus Master, Nicholas O’Neill, will perform a selection of powerful and evocative musical works centered on the themes of peace and reconciliation. The program features classical music by renowned composers from around Europe, highlighting the unifying power of music.
- Bach – Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
- Gjeilo – Ubi Caritas
- Duruflé – Lux Aeterna
- Vaughan Williams – Nation shall not lift up a sword against nation (from Dona Nobis Pacem)
- Dvořák – Mass in D
A narrator will lead the audience through the event. The music will be interwoven with poignant testimonies and broadcast material, exploring the themes of reflections, remembrance, rejoicing, renewal and responsibility.
“The concert is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and unity that brought peace to Europe 80 years ago. In today’s world, these values have never been more important and must continue to serve as a beacon for our societies,” commented Lord Mike German, Chairman of the Parliament Choir. “The Parliament Choir was founded to unite all members of Parliament through the transformative power of music. On this significant anniversary for our country and Europe, we hope our performance will inspire deep reflection and a renewed hope for a peaceful future.”
About the UK Parliament Choir
Founded in 2000, the UK Parliament Choir is an independent body under the patronage of the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Lord Speaker, open to all who work in Parliament – Members and staff of both Houses. It is an inclusive organization where politicians of all parties work harmoniously together.
The Choir has performed to large and enthusiastic audiences in iconic venues such as Westminster Hall, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral, the Royal Festival Hall, the Banqueting House, Coventry Cathedral, and York Minster.
The Choir has been an ambassador for the UK and the UK Parliament in several countries, including Berlin (Bundestag), the Czech Republic (St Vitus Cathedral), Italy (Tuscan Festival), and France (Notre Dame de Paris).