The Durham Hymns – Kiss The Bairns

This video captures a powerful performance of “Kiss The Bairns”, recorded live at Durham Cathedral as part of The Durham Hymns—a deeply moving musical work commemorating the centenary of the First World War.

Performed in the majestic setting of the Cathedral, the song blends original composition with historical testimony, drawing on letters and memories from the people of County Durham. “Kiss The Bairns” stands out as one of the most emotional moments in the piece, expressing the quiet heartbreak of parting and the enduring strength of love during times of conflict.

Filmed with sensitivity to both the music and the space, the video offers a glimpse into an extraordinary event that brought together composers, poets, musicians, and local communities to remember and reflect through sound.

As a filmmaker based in Newcastle, I was honoured to capture this performance and contribute to preserving such an important cultural moment in the North East’s shared history.

🎥 Filmed and edited by Alan Fentiman

📍 Based in Newcastle upon Tyne | alanfentiman.co.uk