CHRISTOPHER SMITH Prolonged applause from a large audience at Snape Maltings hailed a compelling account in German of Bach's St Matthew Passion.

CHRISTOPHER SMITH

Prolonged applause from a large audience at Snape Maltings hailed a compelling account in German of Bach's St Matthew Passion which was given special interest and, in the event, remarkable power in a performance by just the eight solo singers of the Gabrieli Consort, under the direction of Paul McCreesh.

The conducting was remarkable. Though sometimes virtually motionless, on other occasions Mr McCreesh imposed his interpretation not with a baton but with fluttering fingers, wide sweeps of both arms, a swaying torso and delicate footwork. The result was fluency, flexibility and instant response.

Mark Padmore was an ardent and virile evangelist, generous in voice and fully committed to articulating his narrative.

Peter Harvey was a strong bass but did not project the profound serenity that is usually associated with the role of Christos and suggested by Bach's orchestration.

In the lyric solos Stephan Loges made the greatest impression. He also made a real contribution to the overall effect by good work in the smaller parts. Jonathan Mason was particularly poised and precise when partnering Harvey in his viola da gamba obbligato.