Holme Cultram Abbey

This is a choir that loves to sing and under the direction of Musical Director Michael Deakin they performed an eclectic selection of music. Choir member Ray Fearon provided the link between the pieces. The choir sang in for part harmony. There was good balance between the voices with no part dominating. Occasionally intonation slipped, but only momentarily, the choir soon corrected and regained pitch. Diction was excellent, as was their phrasing, all due to the talents of Michael Deakin.

Sometimes the men passed words of the songs between the voices and so all four voices were heard. First and second tenors, first and second basses. Singing Rhythm of life was challenging, the arrangement had seven key changes and was a tongue twister. There was some disparity in the rhythm in what was a difficult piece to sing in four part harmony, but their mellifluous rendition of Myfanwy by Joseph Parry was a balm to the ears, and they sang it in Welsh. Special mention must be made of accompanist Lorraine Gash. She was never obtrusive but was always there and her empathy with the choir was apparent.

The HELM WIND quartet was formed from the GALA TRIO, flute, oboe and clarinet; but along came a bassoon player and so they were no longer a trio, but a quartet. Hence the name change. They gave a superlative performance, and although newly formed there was a rapport between the players. Their first piece was composed by Eugene Joseph Bozza. Trois Pieces pour une Musique de Nuit. The first and third movement stately in style and the second movement very lively. Each instrument was given the opportunity of a solo part.

Following this the quartet really excelled themselves. They had so much fun and this was relayed to the audience. They performed a hilariously cheeky piece based on jazz idioms, mainly influenced by ragtime. Dance Suite by Matyas Seiber. The composer portrays seven different dance styles. The frenetic interplay between flute and oboe was tempered by the clarinet and bassoon. All the instruments had passages where they could shine. The suite ended with a Paso Doble, bringing the instruments to a harmonious conclusion.

This was a very enjoyable concert. Both choir and instrumentalists are to be congratulated in providing a very happy evening. Not to be forgotten are the Abbey ladies who provide refreshments that are unsurpassed in the county.