On Saturday 11th November, a near capacity audience clearly enjoyed the concert given by Tyndale and Newent Choral Societies with a semi-chorus from Stroud High School for Girls and Tyndale Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Michael Power.

After the orchestra’s atmospheric and melodic rendering of Faure’s Pavane, the two choral societies gave a stirring performance of the Requiem by John Rutter. Each movement was sensitively interpreted, with good dynamic range and clarity, inspired by fine cello and oboe solos, although the intonation of the sopranos in quietly sustained melodic passages was suspect. Tina Power (soprano) gave moving interpretations of Pie Jesu and Lux Aeterna with effortless top notes, following the composer’s wishes "dolce e semplice".

In the second half, all forces combined to perform The Cotswolds composed in 1996 by Tyndale Choral Society’s new President, John Sanders, OBE. This exciting work, with five movements inspired by local poets, demands very precise rhythm with some dramatic changes in dynamics and pace. The choirs gave a pleasing performance but were not always totally confident and convincing. The semi-chorus sang well but the sound could have been better projected. Philip Webb (baritone) sang Cotswold Choice most musically, and Diana Moore (mezzo-soprano) used her considerable talent to give very inspiring performances of The Valley and Birdlip Hill.

Anita Clark
12 November 2000