Choral Society find magic blend in difficult Dvorak
THE Horncastle and District Choral Society tackled a difficult programme of relatively unknown music with a varied international character at their recent Spring Concert.
The opening of Dvorak’s Mass in D immediately engaged the attention with incisive rhythm and dramatic control of dynamic levels. The Crucifixus was agonisingly intense.
If elsewhere momentum slackened and the ensemble was not as crisp as usual, it was perhaps because of a failure of invention in Dvorak’s score.
At the Benedictus, glowing late sun-rays illuminated the upper walls of the church to usher in a truly blessed solo quartet sustained by the beautifully balanced voices of Peter Tayles, Sylvia Ravenhall, Gail Hinkins and Isabel Wilson.
In the Missa Criolla by Ariel Ramirez, Chris Hinkins and guest percussionists Edward Atherton and Rachel Bourn, instantly created a thrilling rhythmic atmosphere.
Voices magically blended and delivery perfectly coordinated, Gail and Isabel conveyed a mood of joyous celebration with an authentic South American flavour. Delicious and unforgettable!
In John Rutler’s Gloria, it was the turn of the choir to earn their share of the limelight, whether it was in the rendering of the sharply dissonant harmonies of the opening, the moving slowness and quiet intensity of the Domine Deus section, or the vibrant syncopations of the Quoniam.
Special mention must be made of the heroic performance throughout the evening of the three remaining members of the tenor section.
The success of the performance owed much to Penny Holland’s boundless optimism and her careful planning and thought.
Equally important were Chris Hinkins’ habitually impeccable performance of difficult scores and unfailing ability to support the singers.
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Weather for Horncastle
Thursday 20 June 2013
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 13 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North east
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Light showers
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