ALDWYN Voices lunchtime recital concentrated mainly on the celebration of the centenary of Gerald Finzi's birth and the continuing festival of Japan 2001.
Finzi's inspiring anthem God is Gone Up contrasted will with Lo, the Full, Final Sacrifice, where the singers opened in sustained and muted fashion. Climaxes were judged exactly and the closing 'Amen' was achieved gracefully.
Several secular pieces by the same composer were perceived in fine English idiom. Haste on my Joys produced some stunning singing by the tenors and basses. Being ultra-critical, a touch more high soprano would have perfected the performance of this piece.
Piano music delivered discriminatingly by Mark Bebbington included various items by Takemitsu. Characterised by atmospheric bursts and pauses, moods of agitation and peace were described, as the complete span of the instrument was employed to full effect.
Also by Takemitsu, was Distance de Fee, performed stylishly by Louise Vale (violin) with Mark Bebbington. Here the composer had written more melodically for the violinist, although he employed unnatural intervals sometimes and episodes to be played in very high positions. This latter piece proved to be much more akin to our Western ear.
In the substantial Variation on a Folk Song for piano, by Malcolm Arnold, Bebbington produced a splendid reading, incorporating virtuosity, especially in the left-hand double octaves.
The singers included two pieces by John Tavener, The Lamb with some superbly controlled unison singing and perfect intonation of Tavener's exquisite harmonies and As One Who Has Slept where the composer's intriguing textures and expressions were heard clearly.
Conductor James Vivian drew sensitive and convincing interpretations from the Voices throughout this recital.
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