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Elgar's 'disaster' becomes a roaring success
REVIEW: Bishopwearmouth Choral Concert; Sunderland Minster.
Bishopwearmouth Choral Society gave a fabulous performance of Edward Elgar's Dream of Gerontius at Sunderland Minster.
This choral setting, based on Cardinal Newman's poem, tells of an old man sick with fear and on the point of death.
He rouses himself for a passionate declaration of his Christian faith before being led by an angel on the heaven-ward journey.
Composed in 1900 its first rendering was a disaster and Elgar was devastated, but it is now considered one of Elgar's masterpieces.
Musical director David Murray ensured a convincing interpretation. His dedication was obviously matched by a sense of wonder and awe.
The magnificent orchestral prelude evoked an intense atmosphere in preparation for the Gerontius Monologue, Jesu, Maria, I Am Near To Death, sung by John Graham-Hall.
John consistently expressed the innermost feelings of Gerontius and boldly proclaimed his faith.
John's refined tenor voice blended well with Anne-Marie Owens, who sensitively portrayed the Angel.
Anne, singing with conviction and clarity of diction, effectively contrasted her solo passages.
Philip Smith's baritone roles as priest and angel of the Agony were exemplary. It was in the latter capacity that Philip sang one of the works' greatest solos, pleading for the soul of Gerontius as he prepares for judgment.
The hymns Praise To The Holiest and Angelicals all made strong impact.
In addition to the main chorus a semi-chorus operated from the side gallery, which included Bishopwearmouth Young Singers trained by organist Eileen Bown.
The 50-strong orchestra lent colourful support and balanced admirably with singers so the combined ensemble work was notable for its cohesion and subtlety of detail.
Serene closing passages made a lasting impression.
Roy Horabin
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Friday 10 February 2012
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