Singing Safari - 31 August 2013 |
"Saturday 31st August and Parnham Voices Singing Safari took place in The Bride Valley, starting in the remote, misty setting of the tiny manor chapel at Chilcombe which suddenly didn’t feel so small as the church absorbed and reflected the quality singing of the choir. This was an experience I am so glad not to have missed: the gorgeous morning outside, the open door and there in the chancel nineteen unaccompanied singers who were such a joy to listen to, their harmonies and balance so beautifully combined. Surely this could not have been their first get-together since June? A memorable recital of new and familiar, sacred and secular pieces was delivered with a crisp and enviable confidence under the direction of Nigel Edwards. All too soon they were on their way to perform another varied and interesting programme spanning several centuries of music to the welcoming parishioners of Litton Cheney. The performance was remarkably polished, with excellent tuning and diction enhanced by the fine acoustic of St. Mary’s. The rousing finale of Kalinka, specially arranged for Parnham Voices by their musical director, ended a thoroughly enjoyable recital. The choir then travelled on to Long Bredy where the exhilarating anthems sung so beautifully, with a profound message in the singers’ voices, became an exciting part of St. Peter’s celebration of the completed tower renovation. Bruckner’s Locus Iste was sung especially to mark the occasion. The choice of music was inspiring, finishing with a catchy little number, The British Grenadiers arranged by John Rutter. As the clock chimed 4pm Parnham Voices began its last recital in the small, spired church of St. Michael and All Angels in the charming hamlet of Littlebredy. Once again the choir sang another selection from their extensive repertoire. The tone was rich, graduating superbly between loud and soft passages until The Long Day Closes by Sullivan brought the day to its conclusion. What a delightful way to spend a warm summer late afternoon, listening to a taster of what this talented choir has to offer. Contributors:- Liz Orza, Wendy Taylor, Chris Gregory and Gill Jefferis
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© Parnham Voices, 2002-13 | ||||
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