Review of Milngavie Choir's Italian Masters Concert 2006

A large audience braved a downpour to go to Milngavie Town Hall for the Milngavie Choir concert, Italian Masters, on Saturday 25 March.

The choir, conducted by the energetic Renton Thomson, was supported by a talented orchestra, led by Justine Watts.

The evening started with a fine performance of the Vivaldi Gloria, in which the well-balanced choir sang strongly. Two excellent soloists, Daisy Henderson and Taylor Wilson, sang with accuracy and agility. This was followed by the unaccompanied Ave Maria by Vivaldi, which was less secure at times. This section ended with a spirited performance of Verdi's la Forza del Destino overture with the full orchestra.

The second half was devoted to Rossini's Stabat Mater, sung with confidence by the choir and four strong soloists. The tenor, Campbell Russell, gave an outstanding performance, singing with great clarity and producing top notes which left the audience breathless. The bass, Edward Caswell, sang with great expression, leading the choir through a complicated unaccompanied piece with ease. Daisy Henderson gave a beautifully controlled performance and sang with great warmth of feeling.

The choir sang well throughout the evening, the soprano section especially so, and the ensemble sound was rich.

Renton Thomson conducted the event with great expertise and the audience showed its appreciation of a most enjoyable evening of music.

James McJannet