THIS was the 300th concert presented by Sowerby Music and, to mark the occasion, the baroque specialists Passacaglia were invited to return with a larger group, continuing the Bach Brandenburg series, providing an opportunity to introduce the natural trumpet to Sowerby.
As a result, an enlarged Passacaglia, with up to nine performers, presented a wonderfully chosen programme of music mostly written about 300 years ago.
From the opening performance of the second of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos, it was obvious that that this was going to be a memorable evening.
A front line of natural trumpet, baroque violin, oboe and recorder was beautifully balanced with instruments constantly interweaving.
Supported on a gentle cushion of sound provided by a four-piece string section and harpsichord, you could distinguish individual instruments at any time.
Bach’s lovely Andante, framed by such joyful outer movements, was particularly moving.
The many highlights included a wonderful lilt and swing to the final Vivace of Telemann’s Triple Concerto for flute, oboe d’amore and viola d’amore and a superbly balanced Harpsichord Concerto by J S Bach.
Perhaps most moving of all was Handel’s Eternal Source of Light Divine from Queen Anne’s Birthday Ode with soprano Faye Newton and the small backing ensemble on stage, and trumpeter Russell Gilmour at the front of the church answering or echoing her words.
The words may be a reflection of the time they were written, but the music was profoundly beautiful and timeless.
Sowerby Music’s new season will start on September 20. Details can be found at sowerbymusic.org.uk.
Peter Bevan
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