Saturday 10 July 2004
St Paul's Church, Wimbledon
Summer Concert
Thames Philharmonic Choir

A summer's evening to remember

Thames Philharmonic Choir directed by John Bate and joined by other talented artistes gave the gathering at St Paul's Church, Wimbledon, an evening to remember on Saturday July 10. The programme was vastly varied with choir items, songs and solos to complement the main work of the evening, Britten's captivating cantata 'Rejoice in the Lamb'.

The choir first gave a lively and refreshing performance of Rutter's 'The Lord bless you', the gentlemen of the choir quite evidently having a great time in SS Wesley's 'Blessed be the God' and this being followed by Stephen Disley's authoritative performance of Howell's 'Two Rhapsodies' for organ played with grip and grandeur. The performance of Philip Moore's organ sonata and the later accompaniment of the Britten was evidence of Stephen Disley's lightness of touch, imagination and interpretive skill.

Soprano soloist Heather Shipp joined the choir for several items and also gave beguiling and sensitive performances of her solo songs. Her emotional range was well illustrated and the Quilter song became a really gripping duet with Roger Beeson on the piano. The choir too illustrated their range with madrigals, form the lightness and clarity of Morley to the searing intensity in Tomkins. This lively ability and sensitivity to mood came together in the Britten and extra talents from the choir were highlighted in the solo items.

The evening was delightful and the vitality of programme choice and performance was perfect for the summer's evening. 'Rejoice in the Lamb' sent us on our way singing.

MN Woodroffe, Richmond and Twickenham Times, July 2004