Along with composer Esther Bereseford-Muravyeva, David Bottomley has written the libretto for Pulse of the River, a new choral piece that will receive its world premiere in St Mary’s Church, Rotherhithe.
David says the work is ‘an anthem to the working life of the River Thames, and pays homage to those who earned their living working in the shipping trade and the docks on the Thames.’
The new music is part of Totally Thames festival 2026 and written for an ensemble of Thames Community Choirs, alongside the St Stephen Walbrook Community Choir, led by Tom Shorter, choirmaster at St Stephen Walbrook.
David says he is ‘particularly keen to reach and encourage the working docker families to attend’.
The festival’s stated core aim is, ‘To collaborate with artists, communities and river interest organisations to explore the river’s past and celebrate its present,’ so David will be welcoming choral singers to join in the rehearsals.
St Mary’s Church, Rotherhithe.
One hour concert and Evening Prayers with finale of Pulse of The River.
Sunday 27th September 2026 at 6pm.
Admission free, but booking necessary: https://thamesfestivaltrust.org/whats-on/pulse-of-the-river-26976/
