NEWBURY Choral Society returned for their first concert of 2022 to give a performance of Haydn's Te Deum, and Heiligmesse and Mozart's Symphony No 36 (Linz). The choir and the London Ulysses Orchestra were conducted by Cathal Garvey.
The intended choir comprised 12 sopranos, 28 altos, 7 tenors and 11 basses; unfortunately, Covid19 is still with us and took its toll with about 10 singers unable to make it on the night.
After a brief introduction by the conductor, the concert began with the Haydn Te Deum, written for the Empress Maria Therese in 1800. This opened with enthusiasm and spirit albeit with the orchestra dominating somewhat over the choir, though this improved as the piece proceeded and the fugue was well balanced and beautifully sung.
The performance of Mozart’s Symphony No 36 (Linz) by The London Ulysses Orchestra opened a little tentatively with the adagio but quickly settled to a secure and confident delivery of the allegro. This continued through andante and menuetto and a rousing finale resulted in appreciative applause from the audience with a special mention for the Bassoonists Michael Elderkin and Hannah Robinson.
Haydn’s Heiligmesse followed the interval. It was clear from the outset that the choir were very well rehearsed and the orchestra comfortable with the piece.
The balance between the choir and orchestra continued with a clear and confident Kyrie, an excellent Amen to the Gloria, with the Credo alternating between lively and energetic, and lyrical and foreboding. The Sanctus was well delivered and the Benedictus whilst delightfully lyrical proved a little more challenging for the choir. The Agnus Dei got off to a strong start and finished with a perfectly executed Dona Nobis Pacem. The audience showed their appreciation with a rapturous applause.
Many congratulations to Cathal Garvey, the choir and orchestra for delivering an excellent performance against a background of continuing difficulties with Covid19. Let’s hope that conditions improve for the next performance at Douai Abbey on Saturday 2nd July for Vive la Renaissance! A selection of music from the 15th, 16th, 17th centuries featuring music by Palestrina, Victoria, Tallis, Byrd and others.
