A BOROUGH music group performed a scintillating, entertaining and elucidating programme of Britten and SS Wesley choral pieces on Saturday.
Crowthorne Choral Society’s enthusiastic presentation at Wellington College Chapel was directed by Simon Williamson, with organ accompaniment from Simon Hogan.
The choir began with Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb, colourfully and clearfully expressing the imagery of the poetry.
Tender moments contrasted well with the more vigorous sections, in between which three wonderful young singers; performed the solos.
Wesley’s anthem Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace followed, which though lush, was an ecellent performance that avoided any type of Victoriana sentimentality.
Simon Williamson then played on the organ Wesley’s Andante from Three pieces for Chamber organ, gaining lovely colours from the huge organ without the music being overwhelming.
Two Britten pieces followed; Jubilate in C, and Festival Te Deum.
Jubilate was sung in a spritely fashion, the chorus balancing the organ well, and the chorus confidently overcame the challenges presented by Festival Te Deum.
The programme ended with an excellent performance of Wesley’s Ascribe unto the Lord, a dramatic piece full of contrasting sections as befits a verse anthem.
Reviewed by Alun Grafton, composer and conductor of choral music.
For information, visit: crowthornechoral.org.uk
