Choral Society on song with night of stars and stripes
Sitting in a well-filled Sunderland Minster for Bishopwearmouth Choral Society’s latest concert, there was a palpable atmosphere of eager anticipation, coming both from the audience and performers.
They were awaiting the arrival on stage of David Murray, the conductor, arranger and inspiration for this sparkling occasion entitled The Great American Songbook. He duly arrived and so it began with the Carpenters Sequence, a medley of their classic hits.
From the very first introductory falling phrase of Long Ago, the audience was mesmerized by the nostalgic yet sweet and expressive playing of the strings and the unforced vocal tone of the choir.
The perfect ensemble of the choir, the well balanced inner parts cushioning the soaring soprano lines, and the rich tone of the male voices was like listening to a masterclass in choral part singing, all beautifully directed by David Murray, whose magical arrangements of those well-loved songs delighted us all.
Tenors, basses and altos were allowed to shine as well as sopranos, and this was especially effective in We’ve Only Just Begun: the nimble fingers of pianist Eileen Bown lifted the mood completely in Sing and Top of the World.
Ben Laxton was the soloist for the evening. A young and very talented baritone, he presented a set of three Cole Porter Songs, accompanied by David. He entertained and impressed with his vo- cal colours and communicative powers.
The choir ended the first half with a Jerome Kern Medley, the richer writing here displaying their superb balance, dynamic range and keen ensemble.
A lovely solo from violinist Martin Hughes evinced an almost seductive response from the choir, as they hung on every gesture of the conductor.
The second half started with A Gershwin Selection. The subtle inflections of The Man I Love were aided by the chromatic twists of the inner parts, and this led into Fascinatin’ Rhythm, which was delivered with great gusto.
A wonderful concert of tremendous music given by a beautifully-disciplined choir, superbly accompanied by Eileen Bown and a fabulous string quintet.
Well done David Murray and Bishopwearmouth Choral Society.