St George's Singers delivered a stunning performance of Bach's B
minor Mass when they returned to the Bridgewater Hall last Sunday
evening, 22 June, in conductor Neil Taylor's debut in this venue.
The work is widely regarded as one of the greatest challenges that
can face a professional choir, let alone an amateur group, but St
George's performance was acclaimed by both audience and critics
alike for the mellowness and transparency of their sound, and the
vibrancy and wealth of dramatic expression they brought to the
two-hour long work.
The Choir were joined on stage by the Manchester Camerata, who
provided the accompaniment with distinction, and five soloists,
including Canadian soprano Nancy Argenta, whose appearance with St
George's was the only concert scheduled into this trip to the UK.
The countertenor Robin Blaze, originally scheduled to appear, had to
withdraw due to illness at the last minute, but St George's were
fortunate to obtain the services of Tim Mead, whose singing was a
revelation. Other soloists included soprano Rebecca Outram, tenor
Mark Wilde and bass Michael George.
This was Neil Taylor's first time in charge of St George's
Singers at the Bridgewater Hall, and he rose to the challenge
successfully and with remarkable coolness. The Choir's Chair, Anne
Francis, said: "There is always great tension and anxiety before a
major concert at the Bridgewater Hall, particularly when one of the
soloists falls ill the night before the performance, and we have to
find a replacement! Neil was a musical and personal inspiration to
us all."
Reviews and photographs of the concert can be found on the Choir's
website at www.st-georges-singers.org.uk,
along with more information about their 2008-09 season, which begins
with a reprise, by popular demand, of their Speech of Angels
concert at Gorton Monastery on 20 September. Tickets are already
selling quickly for this event, so early booking is recommended.
Tel: 01663 764012, Email tickets@st-georges-singers.org.uk
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| Taking a bow at the end |
