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Fauré Requiem |
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Fauré Requiem |
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On November 12th, the Cappella singers gave a controlled and committed performance of Faure’s Requiem, under the assured direction of Philip Colls, in Minchinhampton Parish Church.
In between the movements there were readings by Peter Farley, who made effective use of the new P.A. system, allowing his soft, clear words to be heard wherever you were sitting.
The choir produced a well blended and tuneful sound with careful enunciation. The soprano solo in Pie Jesu was sung by the whole soprano section with great confidence and sensitivity. Their pure tone was well blended throughout, sounding as one voice.
Philip Webb ‘s high notes were as impressive as always and the passage, Hostias et preces tibi was sung with quiet intensity. Later, in the Libera me, he sang with vibrant and authoritative tone, echoed by the choir later in the same movement. They too sang with great intensity, never forgetting to match the soloist’s legato lines.
In the final movement, In Paradisum, the sopranos produced a sweet and beautiful sound matching the effective and quietly rhythmic accompaniment of the organ.
Throughout the work the choir was well supported by Andrew Gunning on the organ. He worked hard to convince us that we were listening to a French organ accompanying this very devotional and atmospheric work and he contributed so much to the performance.
Full credit must be given to choir, organist and conductor for a fine performance of this well-loved work.
Michael Power
The Cappella Singers: Registered Charity no 262530