14 Mar 2009THE ENGLISH CONCERT
St Mary's Church, Shrewsbury
Shropshire Music Trust, as part of their enterprising programme, presented a concert of Baroque music played by the English Concert in St. Mary’s church, Shrewsbury. The sympathetic acoustic of the church was ideal for such high-quality music making in a programme which included Bach’s Brandenburg Concerti nos.4 and 5, a double concerto by Telemann and a concerto by Goldberg.
Why the Goldberg work was included is a mystery. It is lengthy, shows little thematic development or variety. The central movement had some lovely moments but its sole virtue was to demonstrate the superb quality of musicianship of the players. Mahan Esfahani at the harpsichord played with taste and discretion, rhythmically secure and never over powering.
The performances of the Brandenburgs showed why Bach was the master and Goldberg the pupil! In the 4th concerto solo recorders were played by virtuosi Pamela Thorby and Ian Wilson. There was a combination of delicacy and warmth in their playing which suited Bach’s music perfectly. The interaction of soloists and accompanying group made this a memorable performance.
Brandenburg Concerto No.5 featured a solo trio of Lisa Beznosiak on flute, violinist Nadja Zweiner and harpsichord player Mahan Esfahani. The second movement, Affettuoso, is sublimely beautiful, and the 3rd movement danced joyfully.
The final work was a double concerto by Telemann. Perhaps this would have been better placed before Brandenburg No. 5 but it was a bright, vibrant work which gave an opportunity to appreciate the soloists, in this case the flute of Lisa Beznosiak and recorder player Pamela Thorby. The gypsy dance at the end of the concerto brought the programme to a lively conclusion!
Andrew Petch
Last Updated : 16/03/2009