The Egham and District Choral Society gave their summer concert at TASIS in Thorpe last Saturday (16 June). Once again the event was blessed with fine weather for the interval picnics and the outdoor second half of the performance.
The main part of the programme contained works by three eminent British composers of last century . Vaughan Williams` Five English Folk Songs which should each be familiar to all though the teaching of such songs in schools has lamentably become rare. They were performed with much sensitivity under Musical Director Lionel Pike`s direction - Professor Pike is himself a notable authority on the works of Vaughan Williams.
Benjamin Britten`s Choral Dances are taken from his opera "Gloriana" composed in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. They are influenced principally by Purcell`s works of the 17th century. The final dance of six calls for a descant depicting the Queen taking her leave, provided on this occasion by the pure voice of Rosalie Pike, finely complimenting the singing of the choir. In 1941, Michael Tippett composed his oratorio "A Child of our Time" inspired by an incident of persecution during World War 2. The message however, is universal and applies to any time and place. The five negro spirituals which Tippett added to his own text must be familiar to us all, reminding us that slavery is not completely dead, and calling for compassion and remorse. The soloists were all members of the choir, and added both skilfully and poignantly to a moving performance by the choir. Under Professor Pike`s direction, the choir continues to achieve a high degree of accuracy and sensitivity of response, which is a great credit to all concerned, including accompanist David Darby.
David Darby also accompanied in four instrumental interludes by Elgar, Kreisler and Massenet, performed most thoughtfully by violinist Susan Early.
During the interval we were entertained by Mike Peters` World Famous Jazz Band. The concert concluded with folk songs from all quarters of the British Isles and the traditional "Last Night of the Proms" finale with audience participation.
Come along next year and bring your friends - remember it has never rained on this event - so far !
Margaret Roberts - June 2007
