Chaconne Brass, Kendal Town Hall

The season’s voyage of discovery that has been enjoyed by Kendal Midday Concert Club’s audiences was continued by a visit of Chaconne Brass, one of the country’s most versatile ensembles. An enthusiastic audience of local schoolchildren had earlier in the day revelled in their unique style; later, when it was the turn of their ‘antediluvian’ companions to experience the players’ musicianship and creativity, it was clear that the youngsters were not alone in their admiration.

In a programme embracing a wide-ranging variety of composers, idioms and techniques the element consistently shining through was that of musicianship of the highest calibre. Listening with a ‘general’ ear blend, balance, rhythmic precision and a sense of fun/enjoyment were always apparent. Increasing the ‘awareness’ level revealed an awesome degree of detail - subtleties of dynamics and phrase shapes, technical wizardry, textural variety – which, when added to the overall retrospective view of the recital, resulted in an experience that will long remain in the memory.

The commentaries, presented by each player (necessary for preservation of lip health), were totally engaging – audible, informative, humorous and witty.

Brian Paynes