Bryan Kelly’s music is easily accessible and can vary from skittish to the very serious, as illustrated in ‘St Francis of Assisi’. Composed in 1981, this choral work sounds fresh and will appeal to a wide audience. It has a colourful, exuberant style including some moments of humour. The words are by John Fuller. Kelly’s original version was scored for full orchestra, although he later re-orchestrated the piece for a smaller ensemble. 2026 will mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi (c. 1181 – 3 October 1226).