Media Vita – Brighton Consort, Katie Thomas (director)

‘In the midst of life’ was the theme of this intelligently composed programme. It started with Michael McGlynn’s evocative arrangement of the ancient ‘Media vita’ chant with fauxbourdon and drum, beautifully sung by Lawrence Dean. Then followed elaborate polyphonic versions from 16th century by Sheppard and Gombert, a richly harmonised Bach Chorale, and a brightly heroic hymn from Mendelssohn. The programme ended with Purcell’s glorious ‘Funeral Sentences’ which include the same text. Magically, the clock of St George’s chimed over the last chord. The choir was really on top form, well-balanced and very responsive. The McGlynn made a brilliant encore.

St George’s Church, 4 July 2015
[rating: 4.5]
Andrew Connal