www.somersetchamberchoir.org.uk  © 2011 Somerset Chamber Choir  Registered Charity No.1003687  

Patrons: Dame Emma Kirkby and Sir David Willcocks

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Review:

I had something in common with tenor Mark Wilde at the latest concert given by Somerset Chamber Choir in Wells Cathedral [Saturday 3rd August 2002]. No, not the voice: simply that Mark was delayed and the first part of the programme started without him. At the previous concert I too was noticeable by my absence!

Despite this, the evening was outstanding in every possible way. A mouth-watering programme, fine soloists and orchestral accompaniment of the highest order resulted in one of the finest choral concerts for many a day.

Mozart's Vesperae solennes de Confessore K339 gave an arresting opening, the audience was absorbed from the first and scarcely a sneeze or rustle could be heard for the remainder of the concert.

The choir's legendary quality was immediately evident; they were a model of clarity and vocal agility, with all sections finely balanced. Soloists Jeni Bern, Kathryn Turpin, Simon Kirkbride and Mark Wilde fitted seamlessly into their surroundings, with Jeni’s contribution in Mozart’s motet Exsultate, Jubilate K165 providing further proof that this was an event not to be missed. Lucky we are to have such excellence so close to home.

Igor Stravinsky's Mass was equally compelling, the perfect foil to the Mozart and the later Beethoven. Sparse texture and angular vocal lines cleansed the musical palate, making the listener more aware and receptive to the finer detail within.

On to the Beethoven Mass in C, a tour de force of choral singing if ever there was one and with enough material for a dozen concerts. Here I simply relaxed and let the magnificent sounds pour over me as under a waterfall. The sheer joy of singing showed in all the performers and analysis was unnecessary.

Conductor Graham Caldbeck has good reason to be proud: this was a team effort par excellence.

Philip Knighton

Saturday 3 August 2002

Wells Cathedral

Mozart, Stravinksy & Beethoven