In spite of germs causing havoc within the Aldwyn Voices, conductor Benjamin Nicholas, newly in charge, drew performances of a high standard from the singers.

A jubilant delivery of Psallite Domino, by William Byrd, preceded Tallis's O Salutaris Hosti', wherein long legato phrases were achieved, but sopranos were too excessive.

Motets by Monteverdi yielded a diversity of musical textures. The solo bass opening, mindful of plainsong, for Ave Maris Stella progressed to splendid full choir unison singing.

A lighter approach to Cantate Domino might have enhanced the bouncy rhythms; it was heavy going! Chromatic episodes, by the men especially, in Christe, adoramus te moved accurately and with fluidity.

Purcell's O Dive Custos, for female singers, was stunning. Their voices blended superbly with fine tone, high notes poised, the whole tuned impeccably.

Two spirituals from Tippett's A Child of our Time and his Dance Clarion Air were estimable, the latter shaded beautifully in its gorgeous mingling of harmonies and polyphony.

Tippett's Sonata for Four Horns, played with polished virtuosity by the Richard Watkins Horn Quartet, was a rare inclusion. The third movement, Lento cantabile tranquillo, after a harmonic build-up and 'wanderings' by three of the horns, emitted melodious musings from the fourth horn. A lovely movement, the instruments mellow and a magical final quiet phrase.

Organist Carleton Etherington incorporated works by Tippett and Purcell. JILL HOPKINS