MICHAEL DRAKE Don't get the wrong impression but there were a few minutes worth the admission – a musical moment to savour for a long time.

MICHAEL DRAKE

Don't get the wrong impression but there were a few minutes during Saturday evening's concert by Norwich Philharmonic Chorus and Orchestra worth the admission – a musical moment to savour for a long time.

Which is not to denigrate the remainder, for the orchestra (leader, Ben Lowe) and chorus were in fine fettle, at St Andrew's Hall, Norwich.

It was the “Incarnatus” of Mozart's C minor Mass that gave that special moment with Claire Seaton's crystal- clear and outstandingly-controlled soprano which provided for me the core of the music and some exquisite singing – not forgetting the part played by the woodwind.

Conversely, Katie Tansey adopted a rather aggressive style, but, joined by Ashley Catling (tenor) and Jonathan Arnold (base), the final Benedictus brought a joyous conclusion with chorus, positively directed by David Dunnett, echoing the soloists.

For the chorus, Qui Tollis was the spiritual centre of some fine and well-balanced work.