Wordsworth Singers, Lanercost Priory

The Wordsworth Singers are on a roll, gathering momentum with each concert and growing as an ensemble, finding greater homogeneity of sound and developing at the same time a unique voice.

Their latest concert offered a characteristically wide-ranging programme.

In Tavener’s Love Bade Me Welcome, the choir demonstrated their now accustomed sensitivity to mood and nuance by simply transmitting Herbert’s text without superfluity of expression by means of Tavener’s assured setting.

Guest cellist Martin Johnson was accompanied deftly by Mark Hindley in two solo pieces by Holst and Delius, the almost visible filigree of the music soaring up and around the arches of the priory.

The choir joined Martin Johnson for Tavener’s stunning and deservedly popular Svyati. Simple, direct and compelling, this piece required great control from the choir, technically, emotionally and intellectually. Hindley directed with his usual assurance, never letting the music out of his grasp, yet always granting the freedom of expression vital and integral to this piece.

Cecilia McDowall’s Night Flight was by turns ravishing and witty, with an inspired new approach to word painting. The piece received a deservedly enthusiastic welcome from the large audience.

Daryl Runswick’s Five English Folksongs illuminated and entertained to great effect, concluding a thoroughly rewarding evening.

Nick Butters