Hastings Philharmonic Choir, Ensemble OrQuestra & soloists
Christ Church St Leonards-on-Sea, 16 November 2013
It is a brave local choral society that opts to perform a work like the Monteverdi Vespers. Under the expert leadership of Musical Director Marcio da Silva Hastings Philharmonic Choir gave an enthralling performance in the sumptuous setting of Christ Church St Leonards.
The highly proficient Ensemble OrQuestra led by violinist Eleanor Harrison which included theorbo and organ alongside brass, reed and strings, effectively matched the singers whether providing accompaniment or taking the lead.
Vocal soloists Sophie Levi, Emilia Radu, Irina Loskova, Michael Butchard, Nicholas Arratoon & Leo Selleck brought flair and emotion to the performance as they sang individually and in combination.
There were magical points during the performance when the whole ensemble produced a huge wall of sound. There were moments of pathos and sheer emotion and much contrast in dynamics and mood as the piece progressed. The interplay between instruments and singers and different vocal forces was at times very effective although at times there were discrepancies with timing between the various forces, particularly in the more fugual passages. There were also sometimes problems coping with the sudden time changes. The larger homophonic sections were most effective. There was much rhythm and vitality and some beautifully dramatic swelling at the end of certain sections.
It was a shame to break for an interval but the first half came to a very positive end with Nisi Dominus.
The second half was, on the whole, more assured and the Sonata Sopra Sancte Maria was an effective contrast. Throughout the leadership of Marico da Silva was positive and enthusiastic without being distracting to those of us in the large and enthusiastic audience.
Overall this was a very enjoyable performance and a chance to hear repertoire not normally heard locally. Hastings is fortunate to have a choir that is prepared to explore more unusual repertoire as well as old favourites. The next performance for the choir is Christmas Carols for All, Saturday 21st December 5pm at St.Mary-in-the-Castle. SP