St Michael's Church, Dalston

Advent opened in Dalston with its Male Voice Choir’s Christmas concert, Gloria. Directed by Michael Deakin and accompanied by Lorraine Gash, the choir presented, in addition to Vivaldi’s Gloria, a programme of many old favourites together with unfamiliar works one of which, written by Carlisle writer Howard Laws, was a cheerful melodic carol The Babe of Bethlehem.

The choir’s clear diction was evident particularly in this new song and also in a moving rendering of the unaccompanied spiritual The Lily of the Valley. In the 16th century Coventry Carol the grief caused by Herod’s shocking slaughter of the innocents was convincingly expressed, reminding us that Advent is not all about tinsel and sleigh bells. In contrast was a gentle traditional Gaelic song Taladh Chriosta (Christ’s Lullaby) with cradle-rocking accompaniment, refreshing harmonies and alleluias in canon.

Guest artiste was 17 year old Trinity School student Yasemin Zaremba who demonstrated an impressive repertoire for one so young, ranging from two contrasting and beautifully played Debussy Arabesques, and the haunting Chopin Nocturne in C sharp minor, to the jaunty Gershwin number Nice Work if You Can Get It.

A jolly sing-along rendering of Winter Wonderland brought the concert to an end. This excellent choir is always keen to recruit new members.