DESCRIPTION
Vintage original official concert merchandise from the actual gig in 1991 - over 32 years ago. 

This is a very interesting piece of musical history, packed with information and 36 pages of black & white photos. The program is in mint condition. It includes the names of all Royal Liverpool Philharmonic choir members and the Cathedral choristers. It also includes the entire 8 movement libretto.

Actual images of item have been used and form part of the item condition/description.  

THE TOUR
The performance of Paul McCartney's "Liverpool Oratorio" at the Liverpool Cathedral was a significant event in the history of both the work and the city. The concert took place on June 28 and 29, 1991, as part of Liverpool's year-long celebration as the European Capital of Culture.

The Liverpool Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Christ in Liverpool, is a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Its grandeur and acoustics made it a fitting venue for a performance of such magnitude. The cathedral's vast space provided ample room for the orchestra, choir, soloists, and audience.

The performance was a collaboration between Paul McCartney, who composed the oratorio, and composer Carl Davis, who orchestrated and conducted the piece. The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir, along with several soloists, were also integral parts of the performance.

The choice of the Liverpool Cathedral for the premiere of the "Liverpool Oratorio" held symbolic significance. McCartney, being a native of Liverpool and a former member of The Beatles, was deeply connected to the city. The oratorio's autobiographical themes, coupled with its focus on Liverpool's history and culture, resonated strongly with both the local audience and fans from around the world.

The premiere of the "Liverpool Oratorio" was a highly anticipated event, drawing attention not only for its musical content but also for the collaboration between a rock icon and a classical composer. The two sold-out performances were attended by dignitaries, music enthusiasts, and fans of McCartney's work.

Cast in the traditional oratorio form, the work has eight movements and lasted some 95 minutes. The text is Paul McCartney’s own. Its story draws on the events of his early life in Liverpool, the large port in the north of England which, with the emergence of The Beatles in the 1960’s, attracted world-wide attention as a centre of pop culture. McCartney’s birth in the city during wartime, his schooldays at the Liverpool Institute and youthful aspirations – these are the starting points for a work that poignantly and vividly articulates the hopes and joys and crises of life in the modern world. Liverpool Oratorio was commissioned by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society to celebrate its 150th anniversary.

While the critical reception of the "Liverpool Oratorio" was mixed, the performances at the Liverpool Cathedral remain an important part of its legacy. The event celebrated McCartney's roots and his ongoing exploration of different musical genres, showcasing his willingness to push artistic boundaries and experiment with his craft.

COLLECTABILITY
Tour programs are highly collectable and sought after for several reasons. Firstly, they provide a tangible memento of a specific concert or event, allowing fans to relive the experience and cherish the memories associated with it. Tour programs often feature exclusive content like behind-the-scenes photos, interviews, and detailed information about the artists and their performances. Additionally, they serve as a snapshot of a particular era in an artist's career, making them valuable to both music enthusiasts and historians.  Whether you're a dedicated fan or a passionate collector, owning these programs offers a tangible connection to the music world and serves as a treasured piece of memorabilia.

Programs can also be framed together with other items we have on our website such as vinyl records, official stage guitar picks, autographs, backstage passes, concert tickets, drumsticks and photos and you can create a truly one-of-a-kind unique piece of memorabilia.