A Maestro’s Musings

“Mozart represents one of the great peaks in the history of music. His works, written in almost every conceivable genre, combine luminous beauty of sound with classical grace and technical perfection.”

Conducting Mozart brings with it an excitement and privilege that at times is unparalleled by any other composer. It is of course no accident that this concert should be featured in the 250^th anniversary year of his birth, but this music still sounds as fresh and challenging today and maybe even more so than it did at each of their first performances.

The ever so familiar opening of the Requiem is capable of creating a sense of excitement and thrill amongst players and listeners alike.

But, this concert is not just about the Requiem; it captures Mozart’s youth, exuberance and maturity in three further complementary works. This concert takes us on a journey through the different stages of compositional development of this remarkable prodigy.

The Veni Sancte Spiritus which opens the concert was written when Mozart was aged only twelve, the Litaniae Lauretanae at the age of 18, the Piano Concerto at the age of 29 and the unfinished sketches for the Requiem in the year of his death aged 35.

It is a particular delight to be featuring as soloist our accompanist Lydia Bryan, who captures a real exuberance in the outer movements of the Piano Concerto contrasting with exquisite beauty in the slow middle movement.

But, the crowning glory has to be the Requiem, shrouded with mystery and the subject of many theories into its origins. Regardless of all this, it still sits at the top of every choral singers list of works to perform.

It is challenging, exciting, moving and inspirational. What more can be said? Enjoy!