Review: Concert 31st October 2009

The following review of the Concert at King Henry VIII School on 31st October 2009, by Clive Peacock, was published in the Leamington Courier on 6th November 2009.

Vivaldi's Gloria, RV589 is by far the most popular piece of sacred music he wrote during his teaching assignment at the orphanage Ospedale della Pietà.

Backed by a small ensemble, with oboist Mark Williamson and cellist Ed Smith prominent, the Spires Philharmonic Chorus showcased the distinctive motifs and melodies which typify much of Vivaldi's music.

Soprano and mezzo-soprano contributions from Felicity Barnard and Sarah Nicholson demonstrated the value of their recent operatic experience.

Conductor Colin Touchin's strong personality put him firmly in charge.

Earlier, the Philharmonic Orchestra introduced three William Boyce symphonies.

Lucy Eliot-Higgitt, who benefited from studying at King Henry VIII School, played the delightful flute solo Dance of the Blessed Spirits from Gluck's Orpheo ed Euridice.

With support from the ever reliable organist, Colin Druce, songs by Elgar, Parry, Stanford, and a 1796 anthem by Coventry's Capel Bond completed a first-half miscellany.

Clive Peacock