On Good Friday the Silurian Consort under Neil Fortin’s baton gave a performance of the Brahms Requiem as a part of Holy Week at St. Peter’s. John Wilderspin accompanied the choir on the organ, and opened the evening with a Brahms variation on a well-known hymn tune. This set the mood for what was a most enjoyable evening.
As time goes on, I realise just how fortunate we are to have Neil as our organist. In his role as conductor, he not only gave a clear beat, (rare in conductors,) but also brought from the choir a sensitive performance that reflected the different moods of each movement and allowed the music to work its own magic. The words of the Brahms Requiem are unusual and focus on death, hope and the anticipation of joy to come. This was highly appropriate following the deep reflection at the foot of the cross in the morning at St Peter’s. The soloist contributed to the emotional journey with honest and touching performances. Altogether it was a wonderful, peaceful and uplifting end to Good Friday.
Melanie Smallwood