Details
Phoenix Concert Hall - Fairfield Halls
Park Lane
Croydon
London
CR9 1DG
England
Programme
Edward Elgar – Give unto the Lord, Op.74
Edward Elgar – Enigma Variations, Op.36
~ Interval ~
William Walton – Belshazzar's Feast
Performers
David Stout – baritone
Dan Ludford-Thomas – Conductor
Forest Philharmonic Orchestra
Lewisham Choral Society
Other concerts in this Series (+)
Programme Note
From the plaintive cries of a people in exile, to the lavish, decadent splendour of the Babylonian court and the slaves’ eventual triumph, Belshazzar’s Feast is a vivid evocation of a biblical tale. Walton’s music, with its jazzy cross-rhythms and complex harmonies, is set for a large chorus, baritone solo and orchestra. Many singers say that once sung, this work is never forgotten and we are sure the evening will be equally memorable for our audience.
Elgar’s lyrical Enigma Variations need no introduction. The melodic and often playful movements, including the beautiful Nimrod, are affectionate portraits of Elgar’s family and friends - and even a dog! The same composer's anthem Give unto the Lord was first performed in St Paul's Cathedral only a few months before the start of the Great War. After its rousing opening, the piece ends with an evocation of 'the blessing of peace' which makes one wonder if Elgar foresaw the bloody conflict that was to come.
A popular choir, regularly singing to packed halls at London’s premier venues, Lewisham Choral Society are delighted to be returning to Fairfield Halls to help celebrate its multi-million-pound redevelopment. Conductor Dan Ludford-Thomas is musical director of several choirs including LCS and The National Children’s Choir of Great Britain.
Baritone David Stout is one of the UK’s most versatile baritones, performing at major opera houses and concert halls at home and abroad.
Forest Philharmonic Orchestra, established over 50 years ago, has gained an impressive reputation for the high quality and vitality of its performances. It has an illustrious list of past and present patrons, including Sir William Walton.