Published: 1 December, 2011
by HUGH ROSENBAUM

Hampstead Chamber Choir’s concert of English sacred music from four centuries, at Rosslyn Hill Chapel, was mainly a capella, requiring a variety of musical styles and choral formations. 

Conductor Iestyn Evans interspersed two organ solos, and bass Dominic Brennan conducted the accompanied works. 

The centrepiece was Britten’s challenging Rejoice in the Lamb, set to Christopher Smart’s remarkable poem of praise to God from all beings and things. 

Soprano Luise Schorn, alto Celia Walser and bass Tim Shelton, all choir members, were the superb soloists.

I liked the choir’s blend and texture, and their ability to change mood from the excitement of Byrd’s Sing Joyfully to the pathos of Tomkins’ When David Heard. 

There were more than a few of those quality pianissimos which define a really good choral performance.

Watching the conductor is another measure of excellence and some, especially the altos, actually did so.

Overall, the choir’s euphonious singing provided a musical experience that highlighted the quality of our community ensembles.