Weymouth Choral Society was joined by members of The Quayside Choir and soloists Lizzie Peacock (soprano) and Andrew Mayor (baritone). Simon Earl accompanied the singers on organ and Winston Leese, with a long association with the Society, returned to play trumpet. Helen Brind brought all together harmoniously with skilful conducting.
There was a very impressive start to the Faure Requiem with the choir demonstrating strongly controlled singing and clear diction. The choir sang the Offertorium with finesse and compassion creating a perfect entrance for Andrew Mayor’s first solo which he sang beautifully. Likewise, the next movement, Sanctus, was sung confidently and fervently, particularly by the male chorus, and this led nicely into the next movement; Lizzie Peacock sang Pie Jesu effortlessly and angelically.
In Agnus Dei, the sopranos delivered a lovely entrance and in the last movement, In Paradisum, they soared the high notes securely. All sections of the choir excelled themselves throughout the Faure, but it was the sixth movement, Libera me, that I enjoyed the most and I suspect many in the choir did as well.
After the interval the choir came back with renewed vigour to perform a selection from Handel’s Messiah. From Part 1 of the oratorio, the audience thoroughly enjoyed For unto us a child is born and Glory to God, both pieces sung by the choir adroitlywith the second complemented by Winston Leese’s impressive trumpet accompaniment. Ending Part 1 was the incredible playing of both organist and trumpeter in the overture of Handel’s Suite in D for Trumpet. This really showcased the talents of both musicians. Throughout the concert, Simon Earl played with both sensitivity and command.
From Parts 2 and 3, Andrew Mayor’s rendition of He was despised was passionate whilst Lizzie Peacock’s How beautiful are the feet was equally passionate and provocative. The choir, not to be out done, performed Their sound is gone out with zeal and energy. Andrew Mayor and Winston Leese performing together The trumpet shall sound was a major highlight of the evening; the audience members were clearly captivated, and a rousing Hallelujah Chorus rounded off the evening’s programme splendidly.
Top marks to Helen Brind for her strong and clear direction and for devising such an excellent programme. The audience showed their approval in enthusiastic applause, many commentating on the high quality of performance and the welcome return of live music. Angela Elliott
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