A Resplendent Impact

Derby Bach Choir makes its
contribution to the Mozart anniversary,
reviewed by MIKE WHEELER

Derby Bach Choir made its contribution to the Mozart anniversary with conductor Richard Roddis directing a fine, dramatic account of the Requiem (Derby Cathedral, Derby, UK, 18 November 2006). There was a sturdy sense of strength in the Kyrie Eleison fugue, and a driving power and urgency to the Dies Irae. The dynamic range of the Lacrymosa was well explored, and the opening of the Sanctus made a resplendent impact. Gentler passages were sensitively handled, too -- the hushed end of the Confutatis Maledictis was particularly striking.

Soprano Julia Gooding, contralto Emily Bauer Jones, tenor Mark Wilde and bass Christopher Dixon made a fine, well-balanced quartet of soloists, though Christopher Dixon's vibrato was occasionally intrusive.

The two Bach works in the first half were not quite so successful. The motet Lobet den Herrn started well, but the second section lost a degree of precision. The Magnificat received a generally alert, celebratory performance, though here again there was some loss of focus, particularly at the start of the Gloria.

Period-instrument band Musica Donum Dei gave secure, dependable support.