University Madrigal Singers Impress

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31108, 11 July 1966, Page 14

University Madrigal Singers Impress

The University Madrigal Singers, conducted by Mr Brian Barrett, began their programme in the University Hall last evening with a spirited rendering of “Fair Oriana” by Hilton. There was a rounded fullness of tone, smoothly produced and pleasant to hear. The resonance of the hall militated against clarity of words. ‘The Fauns and Satyrs” by Tomkins tripped along with merry agility and made with sounds well balanced in bright colours.

Two madrigals by Marenzio gave attractive contrast and both were sung with admirable flexibility and confident attack. “Come Blessed Bird” by Edward Johnson had an appealing poignancy of sound and was sung with delicate changes of timbre. Two further madrigals from the “Triumphs of Oriana” collection—these were by Cobbold and Hunt—were sung with well-sounding ensemble. “Matona, Lovely Maiden”

and the “Echo Song” by Lassus were sung with most charming effect and with polished expertise. This section of the programme ended with the “Geographical Fugue” by Ernst Toch—a spoken fugue very cleverly performed, and great fun to boot. A setting of Psalm 8 by Kit Powell was sung with a clarity which brought out its pastoral character and its effective dissonances. “Tanturn Ergo” by Malcolm Williamson had a calm atmosphere and, within its contemporary idiom, kept the tradition of the hymn flavour. 'His setting of the “Pange Lingua” was not so immediately attractive and easy to follow. All three works were sung with polished skill. The programme ended with Bach’s cantata “Jesu Joy and Treasure.” The Madrigal Singers performed it some while ago and sing it with splendid confidence and beauty of tone. Attack, blend, balance, and clarity of part singing were of a high order. —C.F.B.