On Sunday 20 May it was a privilege to hear the combined forces of the Sandford and St Philip’s Choral Union and Choral Scholars sing the liturgy of Choral Evensong conducted by David O’Shea. The ages ranged from quite young singers to those who are too discreet to boast about their age(!) and yet the choral sound was beautifully unified and homogenous. It’s also lovely to witness a context in which young singers can perform with those who are more experienced and are at a different stage on their musical journey. It’s quite remarkable that in the short time since the foundation of the Choral Union last September such an assured level has been achieved. Thomas Tallis’ ‘If Ye Love Me’ (which was also performed at a recent high-profile wedding) was beautifully realised, and it was a delight with such lovely singing to be able to lose oneself in the prayer of the liturgy as a result. Wishing them every blessing and joy in their continued ministry of music!
AMO’F