Review
Schubert Mass in G
Andrew Carter Benedicite

On Sunday 25th June at 19:30, Clyst Valley Choral society performed a very attractive rendition of Schubert’s Mass in G and Andrew Carter’s Benedicite with a handful of soloists singing some well known classics. Their delightful performance at Holy Trinity Church, Exmouth was conducted by the brilliant Paul Stock and accompanied by a very talented orchestral ensemble which complimented the singing beautifully. It was evident the balance was carefully considered in order to suit the church’s acoustic despite only one full rehearsal with the orchestra.

 

Pip Ash (cello) opened the concert with Schubert’s Ständchen which was expressive and beautiful due to his careful attention to phrasing while Paul Stock (piano) provided a confident and sensitive accompaniment. Janet Macdonald (soprano) displayed great musicality in her rendition of Schubert’s Shepherd on the Rock, accompanied by Phil Bonser (clarinet) who played with such virtuosity. The second half provided some variation in the programme with Clare Rackham (flute) and Pip Ash (cello) performing Telemann’s Sonata in F Major which showed exceptional talent and a perfect blend of the two instruments.

 

The Mass in G was fluent and dynamic whilst the instrumentation for the Benedicite was thoughtful and inspiring, providing a superbly musical atmosphere that aligned with the composer’s intentions. Paul Stock made the most of the ensemble throughout, most notably during ‘Ice and Snow’ and ‘Thunder and Lightning’ where the articulation was sublime. 

 

The choir did not disappoint and ended their concert with Handel’s Zadok the Priest, which provided the audience with an opportunity to hear the large three manual Compton organ played by Mark Perry, whose piano accompaniment for the other works was executed to perfection.

 

The short interval allowed time to meet the incredibly friendly and professional musicians which supports the choir’s ethos of being a society where anyone who loves to sing can enjoy making music together. Both the choir and orchestral ensemble performed with such musical flair and enthusiasm which was highly congratulated by the audience. The programme was ambitious and exciting and I am greatly looking forward to their next concert in November where they will be performing Puccini’s Messa di Gloria.

 

Greg Susevee, BMus Hons Music Performance