Review of Verdi 2019

There are not enough complementary words to describe the two outstanding performances of the Verdi Requiem performed by the combined forces of the Sunshine Coast Choral Society and the Noosa Chorale on the last weekend in May and the first weekend in June 2019. Standing ovations at each performance and capacity, appreciative, admiring audiences were undoubtedly well earned by the wonderful soloists, superb orchestra and the two choirs.

The first movement – Requiem – demonstrated well controlled precise singing by the two choirs, whilst the Dies irae and Tuba mirum were dramatic and passionate in every sense.

The four soloists – Judit, Melissa, Andrew and Jeffrey – all executed the linking music with clarity and breathtaking musicality, and the chorus and soloists joining forces in the poignant, emotional Lacrymosa with empathy and responsive singing.

After the interval the four soloists displayed all the elements of superb and sympathetic interpretation for the Offertorio which contrasted with the dynamism of the eight part choir Sanctus. This “hymn of praise” the two choirs excelled with their entries and homogenous sound and found the audience wanting to applaud at the Kawana performance in particular, such was the exciting, thrilling and exhilarating performance!

Again in the Agnus Dei the choirs enhanced Judit and Melissa performance with meticulous compasionate singing.

The Lux aeterna for Mezzo soprano, Tenor and Bass Trio literally shone with conviction and brilliance.

Finally the Libera me – after the dramatic introduction by Judit – was skilfully and precisely sung by the two choirs, the highlight being the a-cappella “Requiem”.

The fugal entries of the Libera me that followed were precise and to the fore, whilst the final few bars of the work were atmospheric with sensitive and emotive singing by both Judit and the choirs.

I would like to pay tribute and thank most profusely our superb soloists and also the magnificent “Verdi” orchestra under the splendid leadership of Donna McMahon.

I would also like to thank Natasha Koch and Janet Brewer, the choirs most proficient and talented accompanists, we are so fortunate in having their skills and gifts to complement and help us on the way to performance.

Lastly, I thank you – the S. C. C. Society and the Noosa Chorale for all your commitment and dedication to obtain such a high standard of presentation as demonstrated over the last two weekends. It was a great honour and pleasure to conduct you in this Verdi masterpiece. I was very proud of you all so thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Sincere best wishes.

Adrian

P.S. My Facebook has been “alive” with activity and brilliant complements.