January 28, 1944:
John Kenneth Tavener is born at 15 Greenhill in Wembly Park, London, United Kingdom, the first of two children born to Kenneth Tavener, a surveyor and organist currently a member of the Royal Engineers, and Muriel Brown, daughter of a dentist.
October 23, 1961:
John Tavener (17) undergoes an entrance examination for the Royal Academy of Music in London. He will be accepted.
November 12, 1961:
A setting of the Credo for tenor, chorus, organ, three oboes, three trumpets, and two trombones with spoken narration by John Tavener (17) is performed for the first time, in St. Andrew’s, Frognal.
January 8, 1962:
John Tavener (17) begins studies at the Royal Academy of Music.
November 11, 1962:
Genesis, an oratorio for tenor, narrator, chorus, brass, percussion, organ, piano, and string quartet by John Tavener (18) is performed for the first time, in St. Andrews’, Frognal.
July 19, 1963:
Royal Academy of Music student John Tavener (19) is informed that he has been awarded the William Wallace Exhibition, giving him free tuition for one year.
December 6, 1963:
Piano Concerto for piano, three horns, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (19) is performed for the first time, at the Royal Academy of Music, London.
June 14, 1964:
The Cappemakers, a dramatic cantata by John Tavener (20) to the York Mystery Play, is performed for the first time, in Charleston Manor, conducted by the composer.
July 20, 1964:
Three Holy Sonnets for baritone, two horns, two trombones, timpani, and strings by John Tavener (20) to words of Donne is performed for the first time, in St. Bartholomew-the-Great, Smithfield.
November 11, 1965:
Three Sections from TS Eliot’s The Four Quartets for voice and piano by John Tavener (21) is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London.
January 24, 1968:
The Whale, a dramatic cantata for mezzo-soprano, baritone, narrators, six actors, children’s chorus, chorus, orchestra, organ, electronic organ, and tape by John Tavener (23) to words of the Collins Encyclopedia and the Bible is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London. The composer plays the electronic organ part. It is an unqualified popular and critical success.
March 14, 1968:
Grandma’s Footsteps for five groups of players and five music boxes by John Tavener (24) is performed for the first time, at St. Pancras Town Hall, London the composer conducting.
March 27, 1968:
Introit for March 27 for soprano, alto, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (24) is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London. The performance is to honor the London Bach Society. Tavener chose as his text the liturgy for St. John Damascene, on whose feast day the concert happens to fall.
August 12, 1968:
In alium for soprano, orchestra, and tape by John Tavener (24) to words of Péguy and the Vulgate is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London. The evening’s conductor, Norman Del Mar, refused to rehearse or conduct the piece and David Atherton is substituted.
July 16, 1969:
A Celtic Requiem, a cantata for solo voices, children’s chorus, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (25), is performed for the first time, in Royal Festival Hall, London. The composer is one of the two conductors.
April 2, 1970:
An episode of the British television series Making Out is broadcast. The series is about the achievements of young people in various walks of life. This episode is about John Tavener (26).
July 9, 1970:
Coplas for vocal soloists, chorus, and tape by John Tavener (26) to words of St. John of the Cross is performed for the first time, at Cheltenham.
July 22, 1970:
Today is the first of three days of recording sessions of The Whale by John Tavener (26) for Apple Records. The composer plays the electronic organ. One of the speakers is Ringo Starr.
September 20, 1971:
Responsorium in memoriam Annon Lee Silver for two mezzo-sopranos, chorus, and two flutes by John Tavener (27) is performed for the first time, in St. Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham.
October 17, 1971:
One Man’s Week: John Tavener (27) is broadcast by BBC television.
June 8, 1972:
Canciones Españolas, a cycle for two counter-tenors, two flutes, percussion, organ, and harpsichord by John Tavener (28) to various Spanish authors, is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London.
July 29, 1972:
Little Requiem for Father Malachy Lynch for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (28) is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
February 1, 1973:
Variations on Three Blind Mice for orchestra by John Tavener (29) is performed for the first time.
June 10, 1973:
Requiem for Father Malachy for solo voices, chorus, and chamber ensemble by John Tavener (29) is performed for the first time, the composer conducting.
June 22, 1974:
Ultimos ritos for vocal soloists, five speakers, chorus, brass, orchestra, and tape by John Tavener (30) is performed for the first time, in the Great Church of St. Bavo, Haarlem.
November 17, 1974:
John Tavener (30) marries Victoria Maragopoulou, a Greek dancer, daughter of a doctor, in the Russian Orthodox Cathedral in London.
April 22, 1977:
Canticle of the Mother of God for soprano and chorus by John Tavener (33) to words of the Bible is performed for the first time, in Rye Parish Church.
June 6, 1977:
A Gentle Spirit, a chamber opera by John Tavener (33) to words of McLarnon after Dostoyevsky, is performed for the first time, in the Theatre Royal, Bath.
November 30, 1977:
Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom for celebrants and chorus by John Tavener (33) is performed for the first time, in the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, London. It is not an actual service and one celebrant is played by the composer. Some members of the congregation are resentful of Tavener’s efforts with their liturgy, but the Russian Metropolitan is encouraging.
January 15, 1978:
Six Russian Folksongs for soprano, piccolo, bassoon, trumpet, domra, two violins, and cello by John Tavener (33) is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London.
March 8, 1978:
Kyklike kinesis for soprano, cello, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (34) is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London.
April 28, 1978:
Lamentation, Last Prayer, and Exaltation for soprano and handbells by John Tavener (34) is performed for the first time, in Rye.
March 1, 1979:
Palintropos for piano and orchestra by John Tavener (35) is performed for the first time, in Birmingham Town Hall.
March 30, 1979:
The Immurement of Antigone for mezzo-soprano and orchestra by John Tavener (35) to words of McLarnon is performed for the first time, in Royal Festival Hall, London.
October 1, 1979:
Thérèse, an opera by John Tavener (35) to words of McLarnon, is performed for the first time, in Covent Garden.
October 10, 1979:
Greek Interlude for flute and piano by John Tavener (35) is performed for the first time, in Little Missenden Parish Church.
June 18, 1980:
Six Abassid Songs for tenor, three flutes and percussion by John Tavener (36) is performed for the first time, in Snape Maltings. Driving back to his London home afterwards, the composer suffers a mild stroke and crashes into a parked car. The cause of the accident will not be correctly diagnosed for a week.
October 10, 1980:
My Grandfather’s Waltz for piano four-hands by John Tavener (36) is performed for the first time, in Little Missenden Parish Church. The composer plays two of the hands.
November 24, 1980:
Palin for piano by John Tavener (36) is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London.
April 25, 1981:
Sappho: Lyrical Fragments for two sopranos and strings by John Tavener (37) is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London.
August 20, 1981:
Akhmatova: Requiem for soprano, bass, and orchestra by John Tavener (37) is performed for the first time, in Usher Hall, Edinburgh.
October 11, 1981:
Prayer for the World for 16 solo voices by John Tavener (37) is performed for the first time, at the Round House, London. The audience is polite.
October 19, 1981:
Risen! for chorus, brass, percussion, piano, and strings by John Tavener (37) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, at Bedford School conducted by the composer.
June 27, 1982:
Mandelion for organ by John Tavener (38) is performed for the first time, in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin.
July 12, 1982:
Towards the Son: Ritual Procession for chamber orchestra by John Tavener (38) is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham Town Hall.
September 12, 1982:
Three choral works by John Tavener (38) are performed for the first time, at Wigmore Hall, London: Doxa, Funeral Ikos, and The Lord’s Prayer.
December 22, 1982:
The Lamb for chorus by John Tavener (38) to words of Blake is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral. The response to this performance and a broadcast on Christmas Eve is overwhelmingly positive.
January 16, 1983:
He Hath Entered the Heaven for nine trebles by John Tavener (38) is performed for the first time, at Oxford.
October 16, 1983:
To a Child Dancing in the Wind for soprano, flute, harp, and viola by John Tavener (39) to words of Yeats is performed for the first time, in Little Missenden Parish Church.
May 17, 1984:
Chant for guitar by John Tavener (40) is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London.
May 18, 1984:
Sixteen Haiku of Seferis for soprano, tenor, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (40) is performed for the first time, in St. David’s Cathedral, Dyfed, Wales.
July 8, 1984:
Ikon of Light for chorus, violin, viola, and cello by John Tavener (40) is performed for the first time, in Tewkesbury Abbey, Cheltenham.
October 13, 1984:
Little Missenden Calm for oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and horn by John Tavener (40) is performed for the first time, in Little Missenden Church.
May 17, 1985:
Orthodox Vigil Service for chorus and handbells by John Tavener (41) is performed for the first time, in Christ Church, Oxford.
June 28, 1985:
Love Bade Me Welcome for chorus by John Tavener (41) to words of Herbert is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
November 3, 1985:
Angels for chorus and organ by John Tavener (41) to words of Walker is performed for the first time, in All Saints Church, Basingstoke.
November 25, 1985:
Trisagion for brass quintet by John Tavener (41) is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Church, Huddersfield.
December 14, 1985:
Two Hymns to the Mother of God for chorus by John Tavener (41) to words of the Orthodox liturgy are performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
April 3, 1986:
A Mini Song Cycle for Gina for soprano and piano by John Tavener (42) to words of Yeats is performed for the first time, in St. John’s Church, Ladbroke Grove, London.
June 21, 1986:
Panikhida for chorus by John Tavener (42) is performed for the first time, in St. James’s Church, Picadilly.
March 20, 1987:
Ikon of St. Cuthbert of Lindisfarne for chorus by John Tavener (43) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in Durham Cathedral.
April 24, 1987:
Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for chorus by John Tavener (43) is performed for the first time, in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge.
July 5, 1987:
Eis thanaton, a ritual for soprano, bass, and two chamber groups by John Tavener (43) to words of Kalvos, is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham.
August 22, 1987:
Many Years for baritone and chorus by John Tavener (43) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Frinton-on-Sea, Essex.
December 8, 1987:
Acclamation for chorus by John Tavener (43) is performed for the first time, for the arrival of His All Holiness, the Ecumenical Patriarch Demetrios I at Canterbury Cathedral.
December 22, 1987:
God Is with Us for male voice, chorus, and organ by John Tavener (43) to words of the Greek Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
January 31, 1988:
In Memory of Cats for piano by John Tavener (44) is performed for the first time, at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London.
June 30, 1988:
Hymn to the Holy Spirit for three trebles and chorus by John Tavener (44) is performed for the first time, in the Greek Cathedral of St. Sophia, London.
August 7, 1988:
Ikon of St. Seraphim for counter tenor, baritone, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (44) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in the church of St. Endellion, Wadebridge, Cornwall.
September 23, 1988:
The Call for chorus by John Tavener (44) to words of the Bible is performed for the first time, in St. Matthew’s Church, Northampton.
November 21, 1988:
Akathist of Thanksgiving: Glory to God for Everything for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (44) to words of Petrov (tr. Mother Thekla) is performed for the first time, in Westminster Abbey, London.
March 5, 1989:
The Tyger for chorus by John Tavener (45) to words of Blake is performed for the first time, in Plymouth Congregational Church, Minneapolis.
March 24, 1989:
Ikon of the Crucifixion for solo voices, chorus, brass, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (45) is performed for the first time, over the airwaves of BBC television.
May 13, 1989:
Let Not the Prince Be Silent for chorus by John Tavener (45) to words of St. Clement of Alexandria is performed for the first time, in Sherborne Abbey, Dorset.
June 28, 1989:
Lament of the Mother of God for soprano and chorus by John Tavener (45) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Norwich Cathedral.
September 4, 1989:
The Protecting Veil for cello and strings by John Tavener (45) is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London.
December 27, 1989:
Today the Virgin for chorus by John Tavener (45) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in Westminster Abbey.
April 17, 1990:
Resurrection for solo voices, chorus, brass, percussion, organ, and string quartet by John Tavener (46) to words of the Bible and Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in Glasgow Cathedral.
May 6, 1990:
Eonia for chorus by John Tavener (46) to words of Seferis and the Bible is performed for the first time, in City Hall, Cork.
May 18, 1990:
The Uncreated Eros for chorus by John Tavener (46) is performed for the first time, in St. Bride’s, London.
July 8, 1990:
Psalm 121: I Will Lift up Mine Eyes unto the Hills for chorus by John Tavener (46) is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
August 24, 1990:
Thrinos for cello by John Tavener (46) is performed for the first time, in Edinburgh.
February 18, 1991:
The Hidden Treasure for string quartet by John Tavener (47) is performed for the first time, in Walter Moberly Hall, Keele.
April 13, 1991:
John Tavener (47) undergoes surgery in London to repair a leaky aorta. The operation is successful but while in intensive care after the surgery he begins to bleed again and is rushed back into the operating room. Surgeons open him up again. With his surgeon relaying advice from a car phone, the bleeding is stopped and he is once again wheeled into intensive care for recovery.
May 3, 1991:
John Tavener (47) returns to his home in Wembley Park after an operation to repair a leaking aorta.
June 4, 1991:
In the garden of his Wembley Park home, John Tavener (47) becomes engaged to Maryanna Schaefer.
June 6, 1991:
Ikon of the Trinity for soprano, bass, and chorus by John Tavener (47) is performed for the first time, in St. John’s Smith Square, London.
June 15, 1991:
Thunder Entered Her for chorus, male chorus, and organ by John Tavener (47) to words of St. Ephraim the Syrian (tr. Brock) is performed for the first time, in St. Alban’s Abbey.
June 24, 1991:
Meditation on the Light for counter tenor, guitar, and handbells by John Tavener (47) is performed for the first time, at Spitalfields.
September 8, 1991:
In the private chapel of Archbishop Gregorios, head of the Greek Orthodox Church in Britain, in Bayswater, John Tavener (47) marries Maryanna Schaefer, a physicist with the British Nuclear Industry Forum, the daughter of an ecology professor. She is his second wife.
September 19, 1991:
The Repentant Thief for clarinet, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (47) is performed for the first time, in the Barbican Hall, London.
December 20, 1991:
Ikon of the Nativity for chorus by John Tavener (47) to words of St. Ephrem the Syrian (tr. Brock) is performed for the first time.
June 6, 1992:
A Christmas Round for chorus by John Tavener (48) to words from the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in St. John’s Smith Square, London. Also premiered is Tavener’s O, Do Not Move for chorus to words of Seferis (tr. Sherrard).
June 7, 1992:
The Child Lived for soprano and cello by John Tavener (48) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in the Purcell Room, London.
June 19, 1992:
Mary of Egypt, an ikon in music and dance by John Tavener (48) to words of Mother Thekla, is performed for the first time, at Snape Maltings.
July 15, 1992:
The Last Sleep of the Virgin for string quartet and handbells by John Tavener (48) is performed for the first time, in Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham.
July 18, 1992:
We Shall See Him as He Is for soprano, two tenors, chorus, two trumpets, timpani, organ, and strings by John Tavener (48) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in Chester for the 900th anniversary of Chester Cathedral.
August 28, 1992:
A Village Wedding for counter tenor, two tenors, and bass by John Tavener (48) to words of Sikelianos is performed for the first time, in St. Augustine’s Church, Penarth.
November 24, 1992:
Eternal Memory for cello and strings by John Tavener (48) is performed for the first time, in the Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington, New Zealand.
November 25, 1992:
Annunciation for vocal soloists and chorus by John Tavener (48) to words from the Bible is performed for the first time, in Westminster Abbey.
May 27, 1993:
Hymns of Paradise for bass, female chorus, and six violins by John Tavener (49) to words of St. Ephraim the Syrian (tr. Brock) is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
July 25, 1993:
A second setting of The Lord’s Prayer for chorus by John Tavener (49) is performed for the first time, in St. Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St. Edmunds.
September 28, 1993:
Akhmatova Songs for soprano and cello by John Tavener (49) is performed for the first time, in St. Sampson’s Church, Crickdale.
January 22, 1994:
Song for Athene for chorus by John Tavener (49) to words of Shakespeare and the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in St. Giles Cripplegate, London.
March 28, 1994:
The World is Burning for chorus and tam-tam by John Tavener (50) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in Guildhall, London.
May 3, 1994:
Theophany for orchestra, bandir drum and tape by John Tavener (50) is performed for the first time, in Basingstoke Concert Hall.
July 20, 1994:
Amen for chorus by John Tavener (50) is performed for the first time, at Chichester Cathedral.
August 14, 1994:
The Apocalypse for a large number of singers and players by John Tavener (50) to words of Mother Thekla after the Bible is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London.
October 9, 1994:
The Myrrh-Bearer for viola, chorus, and percussion by John Tavener (50) is performed for the first time, in Barbican Hall, London.
December 3, 1994:
Wedding Prayer for chorus by John Tavener (50) is performed for the first time, in the House of Lords, London to celebrate the wedding of Lord and Lady Marks.
March 16, 1995:
Akhmatova Songs for soprano and string quartet by John Tavener (51) is performed for the first time, in the Purcell Room, London.
April 14, 1995:
Lament for Phaedra for cello and soprano by John Tavener (51) is performed for the first time, in Athens Concert Hall.
May 7, 1995:
Three Antiphons for chorus by John Tavener (51) to words of the Bible is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.
October 1, 1995:
Svyati for cello and chorus by John Tavener (51) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in St. Sampson’s Church, Cricklade. Also premiered is Tavener’s Chant for solo cello.
October 7, 1995:
Let’s Begin Again for solo voices, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (51) is performed for the first time, in Norwich Cathedral.
October 10, 1995:
Innocence for cello, organ, soprano, tenor, chorus, and handbells by John Tavener (51) is performed for the first time, in Westminster Abbey.
October 29, 1995:
Agraphon for soprano, timpani, and strings by John Tavener (51) to words of Sikelianos (tr. Keeley and Sherrard) is performed for the first time, in Athens Concert Hall.
March 22, 1996:
Feast of Feasts for vocal soloists, chorus, and percussion by John Tavener (52) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in the Grand Hall, Balamand Abbey, Lebanon.
April 21, 1996:
Prayer to the Holy Trinity for chorus by John Tavener (52) is performed for the first time, in Jesus College Chapel, Cambridge.
June 26, 1996:
Tears of the Angels for violin and strings by John Tavener (52) is performed for the first time, in the Hellenic Center, London.
August 10, 1996:
Vlepondas for soprano, baritone, and cello by John Tavener (52) is performed for the first time, in Delphi.
October 13, 1996:
The Hidden Face for oboe, counter tenor, and strings by John Tavener (52) is performed for the first time, in the Barbican Center, London.
January 25, 1997:
As One Who Has Slept for chorus by John Tavener (52) to words from the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
May 17, 1997:
Hymn of the Unwaning Light for chorus by John Tavener (53) is performed for the first time, in Sherborne Abbey.
June 1, 1997:
Notre Père for children’s choir by John Tavener (53) is performed for the first time, at Saint-André de Colmar, France.
June 21, 1997:
Petra for seven string players (who also sing) by John Tavener (53) is performed for the first time, in Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh.
June 27, 1997:
Samaveda for flute, tampura, and soprano by John Tavener (53) is performed for the first time, at the Nehru Center, London.
July 1, 1997:
Diódia--String Quartet no.3 by John Tavener (53) is performed for the first time, in West Cork, Ireland.
November 11, 1997:
Apolytikion of St. Martin for chorus by John Tavener (53) is performed for the first time, at St.-Martin-in-the-Fields, London.
November 29, 1997:
Fear and Rejoice, O People for chorus by John Tavener (53) to words of Mother Thekla and the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, simultaneously at St. John’s College, Cambridge and Winchester Cathedral.
March 4, 1998:
The Last Discourse for amplified double bass, soprano, bass, and chorus by John Tavener (54) is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
March 6, 1998:
Lament for Constantinople for alto flute and baritone by John Tavener (54) to words of Nicetas Chorisatef (tr. Angelou and Davis) is performed for the first time, in the Hellenic Center, London.
May 5, 1998:
Wake up...and Die for cello and cello ensemble by John Tavener (54) is performed for the first time, in Beauvais.
June 20, 1998:
Come and do Your will in me for chorus by John Tavener (54) to words of Archimandrite Vasileios and the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Chester Cathedral.
June 25, 1998:
...depart in peace... for soprano and strings by John Tavener (54) to words from the Bible, is performed for the first time, in the Hellenic Center, London.
July 1, 1998:
Eternity’s Sunrise for soprano, flute, oboe, lute, handbells, and strings by John Tavener (54) to words of Blake is performed for the first time, in St. Andrew’s Church, Holborn.
August 5, 1998:
Apolytikion of the Incarnation for chorus by John Tavener (54) to words from the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Truro Cathedral.
November 3, 1998:
In the Month of Athyr for narrator and chorus by John Tavener (54) to words of Cavafy (tr. Sherrard) is performed for the first time, in the National Portrait Gallery, London.
November 12, 1998:
Many Years for soprano and string quartet by John Tavener (54) is performed for the first time, in Hampton Court Palace to celebrate the 50th birthday of the Prince of Wales.
November 30, 1998:
My Gaze Is Ever upon You for violin and tape by John Tavener (54) is performed for the first time, in the Hellenic Center, London.
May 29, 1999:
All Ye that in Christ have been baptised for chorus by John Tavener (55) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, at Hurstpierpoint College in West Sussex.
June 27, 1999:
Ikon of St. Hilda for soprano and female chorus by John Tavener (55) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in Wakefield Cathedral.
July 2, 1999:
The World for soprano and string quartet by John Tavener (55) to words of Raine is performed for the first time, in West Cork.
July 5, 1999:
Ypakoë for piano by John Tavener (55) is performed for the first time, in London.
July 18, 1999:
Prayer for the Healing of the Sick for chorus by John Tavener (55) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in the Charterhouse School Chapel.
August 27, 1999:
The World for soprano and strings by John Tavener (55) to words of Raine is performed for the first time, in Belfast.
October 3, 1999:
Bethel for chorus and organ by John Tavener (55) to words from the Bible is performed for the first time, in Bath Abbey.
October 4, 1999:
Nipson for counter tenor and viol consort by John Tavener (55) is performed for the first time, in Norwich Cathedral.
October 9, 1999:
The Bridal Chamber for two counter tenors, three tenors, and two basses by John Tavener (55) is performed for the first time, in Little Missenden Church.
December 31, 1999:
A New Beginning for high voice, chorus, brass, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (55) is performed for the first time, in the Millennium Dome, Greenwich.
January 4, 2000:
Fall and Resurrection for soprano, counter tenor, baritone, and orchestra by John Tavener (55) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
January 28, 2000:
Prayer for the Souls of Canada for chorus and orchestra by John Tavener is performed for the first time, in Winnipeg on his 56th birthday.
March 10, 2000:
A third setting of The Lord’s Prayer for chorus by John Tavener (56) is performed for the first time, in Holy Trinity Church, Guildford.
May 4, 2000:
Parting Gift for Tam Farrow for chorus by John Tavener (56) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, at St. Ignatius Loyola, New York.
June 18, 2000:
Ravonee for chorus by John Tavener (56) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Salisbury Cathedral.
June 20, 2000:
Total Eclipse for soprano saxophone, treble, tenor, counter tenor, chorus, and chamber orchestra by John Tavener (56) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
October 1, 2000:
Apokatastasis for countertenor, oboe, and chamber ensemble by John Tavener (56) is performed for the first time, in London.
October 2, 2000:
In One Single Moment for male voices, string quartet, and a Tibetan temple bowl by John Tavener (56) is performed for the first time, in Her Majesty’s Prison Pentonville, London.
October 5, 2000:
The Fool for chorus by John Tavener (56) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in St. Andrew’s Hall, Norwich.
October 17, 2000:
The Bridegroom for four female voices and string quartet by John Tavener (56) is performed for the first time, in South Bank Centre, London.
November 19, 2000:
O Thou Gentle Light for chorus by John Tavener (56) is performed for the first time, in St. John’s Smith Square, London.
December 19, 2000:
Birthday Sleep for chorus by John Tavener (56) to words of Wordsworth is performed for the first time, in St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh.
January 30, 2001:
A Sacred Dream for soprano and chamber ensemble by John Tavener (57) to words from the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London.
March 1, 2001:
Music for the film Mahamatar for female vocalist, chorus, chimes, and strings by John Tavener (57) is performed for the first time, in Barbican Hall, London.
March 22, 2001:
Epistle of Love for soprano and piano by John Tavener (57) to Serbian poetry is performed for the first time, in St. John’s Smith Square, London.
April 28, 2001:
Glory to God for this Transient Life for children’s chorus by John Tavener (57) is performed for the first time, in New York.
May 11, 2001:
Ekstasis for oboe, trumpet, violin, and orchestra by John Tavener (57) is performed for the first time, in St. Bartholomew’s Church, Brighton.
July 21, 2001:
Zoë for soprano, bass, alto flute, Tibetan temple bowl, Greek bells, wooden bell, and strings by John Tavener (57) is performed for the first time, in Tewkesbury Abbey to celebrate its 900th anniversary.
August 4, 2001:
Song of the Cosmos for soprano, baritone, chorus, and four chamber ensembles by John Tavener (57) is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London.
September 11, 2001:
Mystagogia for orchestra by John Tavener (57) is performed for the first time, in Guildhall, London.
January 31, 2002:
Lamentations and Praise for chorus and orchestra by John Tavener (58) is performed for the first time, in Stanford Memorial Church, California.
April 7, 2002:
In Memory for chorus by John Tavener (58) to words of Mother Thekla and the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, at The Rivers Music School, Weston, Massachusetts.
April 26, 2002:
The Mother of God for chorus by John Tavener (58) to words of Yeats is performed for the first time, at the First Derry Presbyterian Church.
July 21, 2002:
Life Eternal for soprano, bass, alto flute, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (58) is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham.
October 25, 2002:
The Second Coming for chorus and organ by John Tavener (58) to words of Yeats is performed for the first time, in Glenn Memorial Auditorium of Emory University, Atlanta.
November 13, 2002:
Ikon of Eros for soprano, violin, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (58) is performed for the first time, in Minneapolis.
December 7, 2002:
Awed by the Beauty for male chorus by John Tavener (58) to words of the Orthodox liturgy is performed for the first time, at First Congregational Church, Harvard University.
February 28, 2003:
Elizabeth Full of Grace for chorus, Tibetan temple bowl, organ, and strings by John Tavener (59) to words of Mother Thekla is performed for the first time, in St. George’s Chapel, Windsor.
April 16, 2003:
Maya Atma for soprano, violin, and percussion by John Tavener (59) is performed for the first time, at Poole’s Center for the Arts.
May 11, 2003:
Butterfly Dreams for chorus by John Tavener (59) to words of various authors is performed for the first time, in Brighton.
June 6, 2003:
Mother and Child for chorus by John Tavener (59) to words of Keeble is performed for the first time, in Salisbury.
June 27, 2003:
The Veil of the Temple for soprano, chorus, and chamber ensemble by John Tavener (59) to words of various authors is performed for the first time, in Temple Church, London.
July 24, 2003:
Lament for Jerusalem for soprano, countertenor, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (59) to words of Rumi and the Bible is performed for the first time, in the Sydney Opera House.
September 24, 2003:
Supernatural Songs for solo voice, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (59) to words of Yeats is performed for the first time, in Canterbury Cathedral.
February 5, 2004:
Shûnya for chorus by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Temple Church, London.
June 24, 2004:
When in Jordan for chorus by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Rochester Cathedral.
July 10, 2004:
Schuon Hymnen for chorus by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Iceland.
July 16, 2004:
Schuon Lieder for soprano, string quartet, and temple bowl by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham.
July 17, 2004:
Lachrimae for viol consort by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham.
July 18, 2004:
Remembering Lenox Through Michael for string quartet by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham.
July 18, 2004:
Atma Mass for chorus and organ by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Liverpool Cathedral.
October 6, 2004:
Stella Matutina for chorus by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in St. Janskerk, Gouda.
October 14, 2004:
Maha Maya for chorus by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Canterbury.
November 7, 2004:
Hymn of Dawn for two vocal soloists, violin, flute, percussion, harp, and strings by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in Waterfront Hall, Belfast.
November 19, 2004:
Pratirùpa for piano and strings by John Tavener (60) is performed for the first time, in the Barbican Center, London.
February 6, 2005:
Fragment for the Virgin for violin and piano by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in Wigmore Hall, London.
March 10, 2005:
Marienhymne for chorus by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
March 22, 2005:
Cantus Mysticus for soprano, clarinet, and strings by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in Iglesia de San Miguel, Madrid.
May 28, 2005:
Mahashakti for violin and orchestra by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in The Megaron, Athens.
June 4, 2005:
Invocations and Last Word for chorus by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time.
June 28, 2005:
Missa Brevis for treble voices and organ by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in Westminster Cathedral, London.
September 15, 2005:
Laila (Amu) for soprano, tenor, and orchestra by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London.
December 24, 2005:
Away in a Manger for chorus by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in King’s College, Cambridge.
January 20, 2006:
Tribute to Cavafy for narrator, chorus, and percussion by John Tavener (61) is performed for the first time, in Symphony Hall, Birmingham.
November 6, 2006:
Kaleidoscopes: A Tribute to Mozart for percussion and string ensemble by John Tavener (62) is performed for the first time, in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London.
November 26, 2006:
A Little Child Shall Lead Them for chorus by John Tavener (62) is performed for the first time, at King’s College, Cambridge.
December 15, 2006:
Remember O Thou Man for chorus by John Tavener (62) is performed for the first time, in the National Cathedral, Washington.
December 23, 2006:
Two works are performed for the first time, in St. Thomas’ Church, New York: Unto Us is Born a Son for chorus by John Harbison (68) and Unto us a son is born for chorus and organ by John Tavener (62).
February 3, 2007:
Songs of the Sky for tenor, oboe, and piano by John Tavener (63) to Hindu, Buddhist, and native American texts, is performed for the first time, in Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh. It is written in memory of those killed in the 2004 tsunami.
June 19, 2007:
The Beautiful Names for chorus and orchestra by John Tavener (63) to words of the Koran is performed for the first time, in Westminster Cathedral, London.
September 26, 2007:
Lalishri for violin and strings by John Tavener (63) is performed for the first time, in Royal Festival Hall, London.
December 2, 2007:
There Is No Rose for chorus by John Tavener (63) is performed for the first time, at Northern Illinois University.
December 5, 2007:
Rocking for chorus by John Tavener (63) is performed for the first time, in Glaziers Hall, London.
December 8, 2007:
Solemnitas in Conceptione Immaculate Beatae Maria Virginis for solo voices and string quartet by John Tavener (63) is performed for the first time, in Zürich.
March 21, 2008:
Adoremus for solo voices, male chorus, chorus, and organ by John Tavener (64) is performed for the first time, in Winchester Cathedral.
July 3, 2008:
Three works for chorus are performed for the first time, in Riga: The Eternal Sun by John Tavener (64) to words of Schon, and Sky With Four Suns and Sky With Four Moons by John Luther Adams (55).
July 11, 2008:
Mary of Egypt for three solo voices, children’s choir, chorus, and orchestra by John Tavener (64) is performed for the first time, in Ossiach, Austria.
October 23, 2008:
Two Hadiths for chorus and harp by John Tavener (64) from the Orthodox service is performed for the first time, in York Minster.
October 25, 2008:
O My People for chorus by John Tavener (64) is performed for the first time, in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dundalk, Louth, Ireland.
November 13, 2008:
Hymn for the Sovereign for chorus, brass, timpani, and organ by John Tavener (64) to words of the Bible is performed for the first time, in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
December 12, 2008:
Ex Maria Virgine for chorus and organ by John Tavener (64) to various texts is performed for the first time, in St. John’s College, Cambridge.
March 20, 2009:
Tu ne sais pas for mezzo-soprano, strings, and timpani by John Tavener (65) is performed for the first time, in Perelman Theatre in the Kimmel Center, Philadelphia.
April 23, 2009:
Towards Silence for four string quartets and a large Tibetan temple bowl by John Tavener (65) is performed for the first time, at the Ruben Museum of Art, New York.
September 19, 2009:
Three new works are performed for the first time, in Barbican Hall, London: Little Reliquary for GFH for cello, double bass, oboe, viola, and two violins by John Tavener (65), and Drones on “Oh Lord, Whose Mercies Numberless” for countertenor and orchestra, and Vocalise on Al lampo dell’ armi for countertenor and chamber orchestra, both by Nico Muhly (28).
October 10, 2009:
Miroirs des poemes for chorus and nine strings by John Tavener (65) is performed for the first time, in Chan Center for the Performing Arts, Vancouver.
November 11, 2009:
The Peace that Surpasseth Understanding for chorus and organ by John Tavener (65), to words of St. Paul, is performed for the first time, in Westminster Abbey, London. The performance takes place before Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh at a service to honor the passing of the World War I generation.
February 6, 2010:
Popule Meus for cello, timpani, and strings by John Tavener (66) is performed for the first time, in Winnipeg.
March 26, 2010:
Little Ceremonial for orchestra by John Tavener (66) is performed for the first time, in Perth Concert Hall, Perth, Australia.
November 27, 2010:
Advent Antiphon: O Adonai for chorus by John Tavener (66) is performed for the first time, at Merton College, Oxford.
December 20, 2010:
A Cradle Song for chorus by John Tavener (66) to words of Blake, is performed for the first time, at All Saints Church, Weston-super-Mare, Great Britain.
February 12, 2011:
In the Highest for percussion and strings by John Tavener (67) is performed for the first time, in Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Scotland.
April 9, 2012:
John Tavener’s (68) second setting of Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for chorus is performed for the first time, in the Royal Albert Hall, London.
May 30, 2012:
A Buddhist Miniature for chorus by John Tavener (68) is performed for the first time, at St. Andrew’s in the Square, Glasgow.
July 5, 2012:
Unto the End of the World for chorus, flute/piccolo, clarinet, and tam-tam by John Tavener (68) is performed for the first time, in Cheltenham College Chapel.
December 15, 2012:
O that we were there! for female chorus by John Tavener (68) is performed for the first time, in Sherborne Abbey, Dorset.
April 21, 2013:
Two works by John Tavener (69) are performed for the first time, in the National Cathedral, Washington: Three Hymns of George Herbert, for offstage percussion, offstage string quartet, offstage chorus, chorus, and strings and Tolstoy’s Creed for chorus.
July 7, 2013:
Three works by John Tavener (69) are performed for the first time, in Bridgewater Hall, Manchester: If Ye Love Me for women’s voices and three string quartets, Love Duet from “Krishna” for soprano, tenor, and orchestra, and The Death of Ivan Ilyich, a monodrama for bass-baritone, cello, two trombones, percussion, and strings to words of Tolstoy.
November 12, 2013:
John Kenneth Tavener dies at his home in Child Okeford, Dorset, United Kingdom, aged 69 years, nine months, and 15 days.
November 15, 2013:
Three Shakespeare Sonnets for chorus by John Tavener is performed for the first time, in Southwark Cathedral, London, three days after his death.
November 28, 2013:
700 people attend the Greek Orthodox funeral in memory of John Tavener in Winchester Cathedral. His mortal remains are laid to rest in St. Nicholas Churchyard, Child Okeford, Dorset.
February 1, 2014:
A New Commandment for chorus by John Tavener (†0) is performed for the first time, at the Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford.
March 18, 2014:
Monument for Beethoven for chorus by John Tavener (†0) is performed for the first time, in Royal Festival Hall, London. Also premiered is A Wall of Music for organ, brass, and children’s choir by Peter Maxwell Davies (79), to words of Shapcott.
April 10, 2014:
O where, tell me where? for chorus and tubular bells by John Tavener (†0), to words of Burns, Boulton, and traditional texts, is performed for the first time, in the Oriental Arts Centre, Shanghai.
April 18, 2014:
Scatter Roses Over My Tears for string quartet by John Tavener (†0) is performed for the first time, in the Minoritenkirche, Krems an der Donau, Austria.
May 18, 2014:
Two new works for chorus by John Tavener (†0) are performed for the first time, in Wells Cathedral: Missa Wellensis and Preces and Responses.
July 23, 2014:
Gnosis for mezzo-soprano, alto flute, percussion, and strings by John Tavener (†0) to various religious texts is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London.
August 4, 2014:
Requiem Fragments for chorus, trombones, and string quartet by John Tavener (†0) to words of Roman Catholic and Hindu texts, is performed for the first time, in Royal Albert Hall, London.
September 28, 2014:
Flood of Beauty for chorus, orchestra, and multiple percussion instruments by John Tavener (†0) is performed for the first time, in the Barbican, London.
March 16, 2015:
The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen for horn and chorus by John Tavener (†1) is performed for the first time, in St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna.