conducted by Stephen Portman
Third of four concerts
Malcolm Williamson Symphony for Voices
Nicholas Maw The Ruin ALAN CIVIL (horn)
Williamson Choral Suite from English Eccentrics
Nicholas Maw's 'The Ruin' is an extended and elaborate setting of an Anglo-Saxon poem describing the remains of a Roman city, for 16-part chorus and horn.
The BBC Singers, under the American Stephen Portman (appearing in London for the first time), produced the sensuous sounds and wide range of colours needed, and also gave an exhilarating performance of Malcolm Williamson's suite, 'English Eccentrics', so varied, so witty and inventive in tunes and textures. (THE GUARDIAN)
(Given on 15 January; last concert, next Thursday: Elizabeth Maconchy and Edward Cowie )