Reviving an old tradition, Norwich Cathedral Choir under Ashley Grote joined with its counterparts from Ely and Peterborough in a concert marking the centenary of the death of Hubert Parry.
Performed enthusiastically by the 70 singers, his joyful coronation introit I Was Glad was a reminder of his leading role as head of the Royal College of Music early in the 20th century. His Blest Pair of Sirens too was full of confidence in conception and performance, and David Dunnett made a strong case for his Fantasia and Fugue for organ.
The prowess of Parry's pupils was evident in Holst's succinct and beautiful Nunc Dimittis and, in another way, in Ireland's resolute Greater Love.
Next came the Chichester Psalms by Bernstein, who was born 100 years ago, and the world premiere of a festival commission, Alex Woolf's Dark Sayings, a passionate and energetic modern setting of texts also from the psalms.
Christopher Smith
• The Three Cathedral Choirs concert was part of the Norfolk & Norwich Festival. For your daily guide to festival events click here• For all the latest festival news and reviews click here
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