REVIEW
Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle (March 2014)
“There was a buzz about this concert even before entering the church. .........The singers soon warmed to their theme and many moments of real drama were achieved ..... Accompaniment from two pianos was provided by Peter Adcock and Alison Pink with great sensitivity and dexterity. ......... masterly realisation of the original harmonium part by John Young on the church’s fine Willis organ and the resonant tones of a splendidly operatic group of soloists was a combination to be savoured.
"The assured conducting of Laurence Blyth drew a warm confidence from the performers.......... beautifully poised soprano duet ‘Qui tollis’ from Monica McGhee and Mary Burman, and again the poignant singing of Mary Burman in the ‘Agnus Dei’......... David Webb (tenor) and Dawid Kimberg (bass) completed the well matched and resonant team. Memorable moments from the choir included the rollicking ‘Cum sancto spiritus’...... the Amen at the end of ‘Et resurrexit’ and expressive support of the soloist in the ‘Agnus Dei’.
This was a life-enhancing event which left the audience and performers uplifted and inspired...”
Miles Quick
"The assured conducting of Laurence Blyth drew a warm confidence from the performers.......... beautifully poised soprano duet ‘Qui tollis’ from Monica McGhee and Mary Burman, and again the poignant singing of Mary Burman in the ‘Agnus Dei’......... David Webb (tenor) and Dawid Kimberg (bass) completed the well matched and resonant team. Memorable moments from the choir included the rollicking ‘Cum sancto spiritus’...... the Amen at the end of ‘Et resurrexit’ and expressive support of the soloist in the ‘Agnus Dei’.
This was a life-enhancing event which left the audience and performers uplifted and inspired...”
Miles Quick