Jubilee Gem of Solos and Duets, Jane Money (mezzo-soprano) Anthony Hawgood (tenor) & Nicola Grünberg (piano)

Solos and duets by Purcell, Elgar and Finzi paved the way for the headline piece, Benjamin Britten’s 1952 work ‘Abraham & Isaac’. The audience were treated with some wonderful moments of Biblical high tension. After the interval we crossed the Atlantic for a selection of songs, from the Shaker anthem of Copland’s ‘Simple Gifts’ to the Broadway sophistication of Gershwin, including his ‘Three Preludes’ played by Nicola Grünberg who supported the singers splendidly throughout the concert. Highlights were Money’s wonderfully dark and mysterious ‘Sea Slumber Song’ (Elgar) and Hawgood’s rousing and lusty rendition of Copland’s ‘The Boatman’s Dance’.

Saint Michael’s and All Angels Church, 18 May 2012

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