A firm link has been forged between Edgbaston High School and the BFCS due to the fact that the adult chorus regularly rehearses in the School’s fine Octagon hall.
This concert entitled Peace in our Time was an eclectic blend of contemporary vocal music accompanied by winds, double bass, percussion and piano. Numerous school choirs performed prior to involvement in Rutter’s Mass of the Children contrasting with mature voices, effective and moving, apart from a few anxious moments from the chorus men during Dona Nobis Pacem. Baritone James Jones was clear, strong and sensitive, delivering Rutter’s accessible score with dignity and warmth. Gemma Busfield’s fine solo soprano was a delight, with only the occasional difficulty of less than clear text due to fading consonants.
Smiling faces, necklaces of colourful leis with visuals on a huge screen for David Fanshawe’s take on Pacific exuberance. Interspersed taped ethnicity was occasionally flawed, but everyone thoroughly enjoyed Pacific Song led smilingly by conductor Patrick Larley. Francesca Whernham’s evocative solo flute magic tied in the chants, enhancing breathtaking whispers from the large chorus, to foot stamping and high spirited clapping by all, over hand-hurting conga drum and percussion. “Break out big time, love to you all” – Fanshawe.
Rating * * * *
