Rapturous reception for Handel’s Messiah

THE Saddleworth Male Voice Choir was again joined by an augmented ladies’ chorus to entertain a capacity audience at Uppermill Civic Hall for the 53rd successive year.

Handel’s inspirational way of weaving various music styles of English church music (especially the choruses), German Passion-music tradition, along with the Italian melodic style, adds to the work’s timeless appeal.

The choir’s musical director, Dorien Kelly, whose knowledge and understanding of the oratorio was clearly evident, led the Pennine Orchestra, soloists and chorus with assurance throughout, the chorus producing a well-balanced, rich tone with increasing excitement and determination in the second half.

The sopranos demonstrated security in their high florid passages while the altos held a wonderful mellow tone. The choir clearly demonstrated the value of having two months of intensive rehearsals, overcoming many of the difficult passages.

The audience participated in the “Hallelujah Chorus” with fine voice, standing throughout this most famous and memorable movement.

The soloists sang with confidence and self assurance and it was lovely to see the return of Sarah Ogden, who performed at the Saddleworth Arts Festival in the summer. Her polished performance and bright tone maintained poise and control.

The choir welcomed back three soloists from the Royal Northern College of Music who performed last year. Mezzo-soprano, Emma Stannard mesmerised the audience in her first aria, “But who may abide the day of his coming”, with rich depth of tone and her extensive vocal range. Her emotive rendition of the aria “He shall feed his flock” kept the audience spellbound and her enunciation was faultless in “He was despised and rejected of men”. This performer has a great future.

Tenor Alexander Grainger performed empathetically throughout and produced a broad dynamic range particularly in his aria, “Thou shalt break them”.

Baritone Richard Moore captivated the audience with his controlled deep resonant tone, which was highlighted in “Thus said the Lord of hosts”.

The Pennine Orchestra, led by Donald Clarke, accompanied the performers proficiently, producing an impressive sound from a small consort. Peter Collier’s accomplished playing on the harpsichord epitomised the typical continuo style of the music.

The entire performance was enjoyed rapturously by a most appreciative audience.