A Review of the Millennium Anthem – Awake, Awake, the World is Young
Gloucester and Wiltshire Standard, November 2000
Review by Eric Richards

Ian Venables’ “Awake, awake the world is young”, a millennium commission, received a spirited first performance, conductor John Wright skilfully welding it’s contrasting sections into a convincing whole. Hearing it straight after the Parry confirmed that the rich heritage of Gloucestershire composers is alive and well. Awake, awake was certainly not eclipsed by its established predecessor and Ian Venables received an enthusiastic ovation from performers and audience alike for his accessible and satisfying score. With plenty of strong melodies and interesting harmonies, Awake, awake is skilful choral writing enhanced by vibrant colours from trumpets, percussion and organ.