John Ireland Celebrated, St Oswald’s Church, Sowerby

A DELIGHTFUL Sunday afternoon recital brought together two of Sowerby Music Society‘s admirable aims with an extremely talented young ensemble performing music by an unjustly neglected English composer.

Though some of John Ireland’s compositions very occasionally pop up in recitals this one focused entirely on his work.

It was very persuasively performed by the Albion Chamber Ensemble, originally billed as J P Ekins and Friends, with pianist John Paul Ekins performing throughout.

They opened with tenor William Morgan and Ekins in a group of songs, mainly of settings from A E Houseman’s A Shropshire Lad with the voice often soaring but also much gentler where required.

James Toll had a rich full tone on his violin which suited the First Sonata very well with the central Romance profoundly beautiful, conveying some deep feeling.

The Cello Sonata, with Jonathan Rees and Ekins, was a more unsettling piece and its darker sections were often interrupted by more animated and emphatic playing.

A further group of songs were well projected and performed clearly with The Sally Gardens especially touching and The Scapegoat suitably prancing but with a twist.

Finally, we heard the short but well balanced Phantasie Trio with piano, violin and cello all treated equally and each having a chance to shine.

Helpful introductions and some fine music, all eloquently played, combined to make this a particularly enjoyable recital.

The society’s next concert on March 14 features the Antara Duo (flute and harp). Tickets from 01845 518001, details at sowerbymusic.org.uk.

Peter Bevan