Chorus 'outstanding' in night of Beethoven magic
Crouch End Festival Chorus (CEFC) won huge praise for a memorable performance of Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis and a new work "From the heart – may it return to the heart" at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall on 5 October 2019.
“An unforgettable experience: these were perhaps the finest soloists that CEFC have worked with. The orchestra was on fire and the Chorus inspired,“
critic David Winskill wrote of the performance with the London Mozart Players.
Soloist Neal Davies, who joined soprano Sarah Fox, mezzo-soprano Jess Dandy and tenor Robin Tritschler in the concert, added:
“The choir were outstanding. I’ve heard many professional choirs struggle with the Missa Solemnis, but Crouch End were completely on top of it and it was a real thrill to hear it sung so magnificently.”
The concert began with the premiere of a work based on Beethoven’s words on the title page of his Missa Solemnis score. Ian Lawson’s 'From the heart - may it return to the heart!' was the winner of a composing competition organised by the choir and musical director David Temple.
“It sounded well thought out in design and expression, with a clear understanding of the skills and possibilities available from an accomplished choir. Clearly, a composer to watch.“
wrote Meirion Bowen in his review.
Read David Winskill's review here
