Frome Voices’ performance of Carmina Burana and Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast played to a sold-out Cheese and Grain.
The adult choir of over 120 and 25 children from Frome Youth Choir, accompanied by talented local pianists, Liz Kozlowski and Jacquelyn Bevan, plus percussionists led by Jeremy Little, thrilled the audience with music that ranged from powerful and dramatic to sweet and lyrical.
The young professional soloists, Fleur de Bray, Gyula Rab and Victor Sgarbi were outstanding, resulting in an overall performance of the highest standard. Bringing it all together was Alan Burgess, who conducted with precision and passion. It was an evening of which Frome can be proud.
The event also drew upon the creative work of Frome College graphics students who produced and displayed a very fine selection of images to reflect the themes of Carmina Burana, with impressive banners that hung each side of the stage – so a visual treat as well as a musical one.
The independent reviewer of the concert was generous in his praise – ‘a superb performance’. He commented on the choir’s clear diction, dynamic contrast and sense of atmosphere in Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast.
Of Carmina Burana he wrote: ‘It was clear from the confidence of the initial attack that the choir relished the challenge of this complex work, singing with vibrancy and assurance. The many demanding time changes were accomplished with ease and there was excellent contrast between bravura and delicacy as the music demanded. A semi-chorus featured in several movements to great effect, producing fine vocal sound and good balance. Frome Youth Choir was more than equal to the demands placed upon the young voices. Their quality of singing was remarkable, as was their confidence in performance’.
Frome Voices is a very special choir, coming together for just a short time each year to rehearse and perform a major choral work. It comprises both experienced singers and those who have never tried choral music before. It aims to provide an opportunity to experience inspiring music, while also making new friends – both of which it achieves. It is hoped that the concert will have raised enough money to enable a donation to one or more local charities, as well as covering costs.
Following the event, Frome’s Mayor Kate Bielby said, “It was a truly amazing evening and a privilege to be in the audience for something so special. Everyone I spoke to afterwards was blown away by the choirs, musicians and soloists. It was just wonderful.”
Certainly, as the reviewer said in his piece, Frome Voices goes from strength to strength. The choir and organisers would like to thank everyone involved in the event – including the enthusiastic audience – and will look forward to planning another musical feast next year.
