St. James’ Parish Church was well attended last Sunday evening for a most enjoyable performance of Mendelssohn’s "Elijah" - a substantial undertaking by the Tyndale Choral Society under the experienced and secure baton of Michael Power. It is some 15 years since the work last received an airing in Dursley and it was good to hear the familiar arias and choruses ‘live’ again. Indeed it was hard to resist a quiet ‘sing-a-long’ in the audience as the rhythms and melodies swept up to the rafters.

The smartly turned out chorus benefited from being seated forward of the chancel arch which made their impact all the more immediate and dramatic especially in the "Baal" choruses. Their part work was secure and the tempo changes were well negotiated. Good diction enabled the audience to follow the script, which was much appreciated in the excellent programme notes. The basses provided a solid harmonic foundation and must be congratulated on their full tone. Though fewer in number, thus causing a slight problem in sound balance, the tenors produced positive leads especially in the contrapuntal sections. The sopranos performed with sustained gusto and considerable aplomb where necessary yet with a lightness of touch in the gentler sections. The altos were mellifluous and supportive in their inner parts and the semi-chorus of ladies in "Lift thine eyes" was well balanced and tuned. The conductor and singers had worked hard to achieve dramatic and effective results in many choral techniques from light staccato to rich sustained phrasing.

Led by Simon Chalk the ‘ad hoc’ orchestra proved most adequate to their task particularly in woodwind and brass playing of the highest calibre. Particular mention should be made of the excellent cello and oboe ‘obbligato’ soloists. Sensitive accompaniments in the strings, crisp attack from brass and percussion and a positive musical ‘ensemble’ was marred only occasionally in the recitatives where support of the solo singers was a little untidy but still professionally delivered. The soloists were all equal to their demanding roles and there were several melting moments in their famous arias, all tastefully executed. The fresh youthful voice of Margaret Whitaker (soprano) paired well with the more mature and experienced voice of Catherine Knight (alto). The lyrical, flexible voice of Mark Davies (tenor - Obadiah) was particularly suited to the lovely aria "If with all your hearts" and Anthony Scales (Bass) provided dramatic tones and sensitive renditions in his part as Elijah. Young Alasdair Gregory from Dursley (aged 9) overcame a nervous long wait to execute his solo role of "the youth" with good tuning and a confident pure tone.

The performance was an inspiring experience for musicians and audience alike. The Tyndale Choral Society well deserves the community’s active support - such institutions breathe life into the culture of our area. Together with the familiar faces of long term members it is good to see new faces in the choir. Congratulations go to all involved!

Lynn M James
November 1997