On Saturday, June 7th, 2014, the Leicester Bach Choir, under the baton of Richard Laing, delivered a magnificent performance featuring a diverse repertoire spanning from Mozart to contemporary composer Ola Gjeilo. The concert, held in Leicester, was enhanced by the exceptional soprano Joanne Lunn, whose presence added a special connection to the evening as she returned to her home city.
The evening opened with Mozart’s Exsultate, Jubilate and Laudate Dominum, two joyful pieces that showcased Lunn’s crystal-clear voice and impeccable technique. Her interpretation of these works was both graceful and powerful, setting the tone for a night of extraordinary music. Lunn’s performance in the first half was particularly captivating, reminding the audience why she is such a highly regarded performer in both the classical and choral music worlds.
The concert continued with Mendelssohn’s Hear My Prayer, a piece that resonates deeply with listeners. Lunn’s delivery was filled with emotion, and the choir’s support brought out the rich texture and depth of the composition. Mendelssohn’s work was familiar to many, but hearing it in this live setting, with such a talented soloist and choir, made the performance truly special.
A departure from the familiar followed, with a selection of Grieg’s choral pieces, including Ave Maris Stella, Hvad est du dog skjøn, and Blegnet, segnet. These Nordic gems added a contemplative and serene mood to the evening, beautifully rendered by the choir’s precise harmonies.
The highlight of the evening came with Gjeilo’s Dark Night of the Soul. This modern piece, full of atmospheric tension and ethereal beauty, was unfamiliar to many in the audience, but it quickly became the most talked-about performance of the night. The Leicester Bach Choir, under Laing’s expert direction, brought out the emotional intensity of the work, blending dynamic rhythms and soaring melodies. The performance was spine-tingling, and as the final notes lingered, the audience rose to their feet in a well-deserved standing ovation. Gjeilo’s composition was a revelation, its haunting beauty lingering in the minds of those fortunate enough to experience it.
Rheinberger’s Stabat Mater was another stunning addition to the program, with the choir delivering a heartfelt and poignant interpretation of this deeply spiritual piece. It added to the evening’s balance of traditional and modern choral works, showcasing the choir’s versatility.
In sum, the concert was a testament to both the Leicester Bach Choir’s exceptional talent and the brilliance of Joanne Lunn. The combination of timeless classics and contemporary masterpieces made for an unforgettable evening of choral music.