Parnham Voices at St Martin’s, North Perrott. This concert of sacred and secular Advent and Christmas music was well received by a full audience in the atmospheric setting of this small medieval church. A varied programme included well-loved and familiar carols, some lesser known pieces, and works ranging from 16th to 20th Centuries. The concert started with a modern composition, Lauridson’s O Magnum Mysterium, a reflective and challenging piece appropriate for this season. Personal highlights included some items we had not heard before - two lovely carols by Bruch, “Ring Christmas Bells” by Leontovitch, and a distinctive treatment by Sargent of the Zither Carol. The whole event was considerably enhanced by well chosen readings, very well performed by James Wilson. In a section marking the 100th anniversary of WW1, Carol Ann Duffy’s poem, The Christmas Truce, leading into Stille Nacht, was particularly moving. A change to a lighter mood followed as the performance ended with some festive items – “Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Jingle Bells”, with audience participation! A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon was rounded off by a splendid tea of sandwiches and cakes of great quantity and quality! |