THE well-known local chamber choir, Voci Cantanti, gave another of their splendid concerts on, May 25, in aid of the St Mark's Church, Farnborough, Organ Restoration Fund.
The concert included works by Monteverdi and Carissim, a Charpentier, Froberger, Schutz and JS Bach.
The majority of works were by English composers and many were connected with coronations – very suitable for the forthcoming 50th anniversary of our last coronation.
The English composers included Henry Purcell, John Blow and John Coprario, who, in spite of his Italianised surname, was English and died in 1626.
The programme included four coronation anthems by John Blow and all were performed to the usual high standard of this marvellous choir.
Instrumental accompaniment (in view of the demise of the church's organ) was in the hands of Dr Anthony Noble (harpsichord) and four string players.
The concert was conducted by the choir's musical director, Simon Williamson.
Simon is college organist at Wellington College and many may remember him some years ago as the sub-organist at Farnborough Abbey.
Anthony Noble also played harpsichord solo and this month will be playing a series of organ recitals in Prague.
The excellent choir, who were in superb voice, supplied the various soloists from their members and particular mention must be made of the soprano, Alison Kaan, the alto, Ghislaine Dixon, and the bass, Sean Clarke.
The choir's next concert will be on June 29 in Wellington College Garden (Old Hall, if wet) at 7 pm.
The programme will consist of madrigals and part-songs and the audience is invited to take deckchairs, rugs and a picnic – wine will be served. Tickets(£5) and can be obtained via the Voci Cantanti information line on 01276 500617 or through the Surrey Music Store in Woking on 01483 776317.
Before the Wellington concert, the choir is looking forward to providing, together with the Alex Curtis Jazz Trio, the musical entertainment at the Queen's Golden Jubilee Dinner at Farnham Castle on Friday, June 14.
The choir has planned an exciting 2002-2003 season with eight concerts, four of which will be in the Farnham area – St Andrew's Church (twice), All Saints' Church Crondall, and Farnham Castle.
Contributed