Celebrating the genius of Mozart at this sell-out concert went hand-in-hand with paying tribute to Helen Brind, musical director of Weymouth Choral Society, who has been in office for ten years. Her successful efforts were amply demonstrated at this sumptuous evening of musical genius.
The main work of the evening was the magnificent Requiem Mass, performed by around 60 singers and the full orchestra of The Wessex Sinfonia, under the leadership of Craig McKenzie.
The occasion was given additional dignity by the touching tribute paid the society’s president Marcia Headon to the well-known local violinist Angela Nankivell who died last week.
Guest soloists were soprano Jane Sherriff, alto Carolyn Harries, tenor Angus McAllister and bass Jonathan Pugsley, who also sang with the opening work of the concert, the Vesperae Solennes, a piece that was given the full extent of its momentum by the singers, in particular the soprano role in the Laudate.
Mozart’s clarinet concerto was a highlight of the evening for many as perhaps one of the composer’s most popular works. It was played by Joy Boole, a gifted musical student at the Guildhall School of Music.
Her emotional sensitivity during the second movement was beautifully contrasted with the exuberance of the demanding finale. She is a remarkable performer who shows exceptional promise for the future.
Review by Marion Cox (Courtesy of Dorset Echo)