<<  -- 4 --  Pippa Hare    A PERFECT MARRIAGE OF MUSIC AND THEOLOGY

In Part II the oboe once again took centre stage for 'Et in spiritum sanctum', accompanying the baritone William Townend, who sang well even if his words were occasionally harder to hear.

Bach's bristling Sanctus, as always, thrilled; the Benedictus, abetted by Stewart's sensitive and restrained gesture, made a deeply touching moment; and both choir and orchestra gave their all to the final chorus of the Agnus Dei, 'Dona nobis pacem' producing a wonderful, finely focused effect.

All forces melded well together throughout the performance, and at no time did the orchestra drown the choir or soloists. Only at the end did the members of the orchestra finally allow themselves to let their hair down, serving up a triumphant finale with the brass section giving their all.

'Bach's music is the most stupendous miracle in all music'; so said Wagner. On this fine showing, many of the audience at this Tudeley performance would surely agree.