This was the first time I have had the pleasure of hearing the Tonbridge Philharmonic orchestra and choir perform under Conductor Olivia Tait’s hugely talented hands, and I was not disappointed. The orchestra and choir were on top form, providing us with a hugely professional and highly entertaining musical evening.
The professional soloists were outstanding, and I was delighted to hear once more the glorious soprano voice of Kristina Ammattil and the superlative counter tenor Eliron Kadussi , remembering the sweet tone of their voices from when they last joined the Tonbridge Philharmonic Society in performing Bach’s B minor mass. The tenor Matthew Sotillo-Cooke and the baritone Johannes Moore were delightful additions to the lineup, each giving us truly heavenly performances.
The orchestra opened the concert with the beautiful Sinfonia leading into the glorious recitative of “Comfort ye” sung by the tenor Matthew Solitto-Cooke. Matthew’s fulsome, fruity voice was beautifully phrased, transitioning effortlessly into the lively air “Ev’ry valley” , beginning the evening with aplomb. From the outset the orchestra, and particularly the string section, showcased their talents beautifully. The choruses performed by the choir were exceptional, they made a lovely full-throated sound.
The recitative “Thus saith the Lord” was another highlight, introducing the glorious booming sounds of baritone Johannes Moore, whose voice was like rumbling thunder. Our joy was increased when the counter tenor Eliran Kadussi began to sing, his voice soaring to the heavens, clear as crystal, a true delight. The chorus “For unto us a child is born” was jubilant, lovely melding of overlapping voices with the bold emphatic declaration of “wonderful” , “counsellor”, probably my favourite chorus in the whole concert. The contrast between the parts was well defined, the first hopeful, the second movement slow and gentle from the start, each voice full of sorrow, the third jubilant.
I must mention the orchestra who were in vivid form, with some fine individual solo moments. I want to thank the trumpets played by Andrew Quinn and Kevin Mylodd, for their expert playing particularly during the “Hallelujah chorus”. I must also point out the collective ‘cellos, and the double bass played by Terry Gibbs, for their contribution to the recitative “then shall be brought to pass” and the counter tenor and tenor duet “oh death where is thy sting?” and the chorus “but thanks be to God”.
If I had the space to mention every musician by name I would, for everyone contributed so brilliantly making the evening a delight. Thank you again Tonbridge Philharmonic for another fabulous evening of music and song.