Misatango

On this occasion, Stourport Choral held their concert at St. Anne’s Church in Bewdley, which actually lent itself quite atmospherically to the programme of songs. Although billed as Misatango, which was staged in Act 2, Act 1 was based around a Spanish theme. The choir of over 30 singers, smartly dressed in their usual signature style of black attire with red scarves or ties, were on this occasion supported not only by accompanist Angie Allard , but 3 other talented musicians, either currently studying or former students of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire; Zinnia Smart on violin, Aidan Hopkins on cello and Dominic O’Sullivan on whistle and accordion.

The choir started proceedings with a melodic opening of ‘Salmo 150’ by Ernani Aquiar, following which  Zinnia played ‘Una Donna is Malaguenia Op.21 No. 1’ by Pablo de Sarasate, with sympathetic accompaniment by Angie Allard. The Choir was then joined by Dominic on whistle with gentle support from the other musicians, with ‘Parce mihi, Domine’ by Christobal de Morales. Aiden followed playing cello including some impressive finger work with ‘Julie-o’ by Mark Summer. Act 1 was then rounded off by the choir with a bright South American version of ‘Convidando esta la noche’ by Juan Garcia de Zespedes, accompanied by the musicians.

After the interval, the audience received the delightful ‘Misatango’ with some beautiful harmonies. ‘Misatango’ is a ground breaking work by Argentine composer Martin Palmeri that blends the dramatic rhythm of tango with the powerful expression of choral music, expressing his two musical passions; tango and choral conducting.

’Kyrie’ was sung with power and with both light and shade and ‘Gloria’ that followed introduced Muriel Bell as soloist. Jenny Parsons provided an accomplished solo spot in ‘Benedictus’ . A forthright number ‘Credo’ including a solo piece by Jim Parker with rich tones and great breath control and this was followed by ‘Sanctus’ with a gentle solo contribution from Steve Worley. The concert closed with ‘Agnus Dei’ including a further solo spot by Jenny, a duet with Steve and Jim followed by a further solo piece this time by Caroline Worthington.

Once again under the inspired musical direction of Dexter Drown, Stourport Choral met a significant choral challenge with success and I look forward to their Christmas concert, at their base at Areley Kings Village Hall on 14 December.

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