Any opportunity to hear CEFC should be grabbed with both hands; a concert at
the re-opened Sadler's Wells is a must.
The programme opened with Vivaldi's Gloria - one of the Church choral
masterpieces of the early 18th century. Supported by a small National Sinfonia
(under David Temple's baton) CEFC were a little slow off the mark. It seemed to
take them a few minutes to warm up, but by the Laudamus Te they were in
song and giving full justice to this wonderful piece.
The next piece was a real oddity. Written by Michael Nyman to commemorate
the 1988 Armenian Earthquake, it was delivered virtually unaccompanied and
(save miniature score lamps) in total darkness. A dark, mournful, brooding piece
it gave the Chorus the opportunity to show how well they can handle depths of
emotion and sadness. It was for many in the audience a very spiritual
experience.
The interval gave us the chance to explore the new Sadler's Wells. In the
auditorium the architect has managed to develop a wonderful sense of intimacy
and at the same time maximise the available space but without clutter. The
foyer, stair approaches and bars are beautifully designed, offering clear crisp
lines and lots of light.
Philip Glass's Songs from Liquid Days summoned us back to our seats. Each song
was by a modern songwriter (David Byrne, Suzanne Vega, Paul Simon and Laurie
Anderson) and inspired the Chorus to deliver one of their best performances
yet. They supported soloists Alison Smart and the excellent Wills Morgan. This
work gave CEFC the chance to explore some complex and demanding harmonies
- a challenge they obviously relished as they became physically animated.
Glass's works have been copied and echoes appear in music for TV adverts,
particularly for financial services. Perhaps this was why some of the pieces
seemed a little cliched.
CEFC have once again demonstrated that they are keen to take on a challenge
and a complex programme. A hugely enjoyable evening played to a nearly full
house, Hornsey Online recommends that you make sure that you're in the
audience for the next CEFC Concert.
