We are still glowing after Sunday night’s performance of our Summer Concert 2024, which proved that not even a rainy day could dampen the spirit of local music lovers who filled the venue. This concert marked the 39th year of the Bray Choral Society, setting the stage for a very special 40th anniversary celebration next year.
The evening was a harmonious blend of Howard Goodall’s ‘Eternal Light’ and Mozart’s ‘Requiem’, expertly led by our Musical Director Frank Kelly. The choir was accompanied by the Degani Sinfonia, under the direction of Alan Smale, and featured talented Irish soloists Jade Phoenix (soprano), Anna-Helena MacLachlann (mezzo-soprano), Ross Scanlon (tenor) and Dylan Rooney (baritone).
From the tender opening ‘Kyrie: Close now thine eyes’, Goodall’s ‘Eternal Light’ captivated the audience with its contemporary fusion of modern poetry and classical Latin text. The dissonant harmonies and driving rhythms of the powerful ‘Dies Irae: In Flanders Fields’ was performed with great sensitivity; you could hear a pin drop in the church as the rippling piano closed out the movement. Another highlight was the ‘Recordare’, featuring a deeply emotive performance by sopranos Jade Phoenix and Anna-Helena MacLachlann, whose voices intertwined beautifully, creating a poignant and tender dialogue.
After a short interval, Mozart’s ‘Requiem’, a particular favourite of Musical Director Frank and a work well known by the choir, was performed with the grandeur and depth befitting its status as a masterpiece of the classical repertoire. Each movement was executed with clarity and emotion, showcasing the choir and soloists’ versatility and technical prowess.
It was a poignant night also for the choir, being our final performance with accompanist John Kelly on piano. We wish John all the best for the future having supported the choir in this important role over the last three seasons.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank our loyal patrons and the local business community for their generous financial support, as well as the many many people in the community who support the choir in various ways – from the front of house team to the Holy Redeemer Pastoral Council for the use of the Little Flower Hall for our weekly rehearsals. A special mention also for genius carpenter Martin Browne who constructed our brand new platforms this year.
We now look forward to a well deserved break for the summer, to rest the vocal cords and recharge the batteries. In September, we will recommence weekly rehearsals at the Little Flower Hall where we will welcome any new members and begin to prepare for our annual Christmas concert and a very special 40th anniversary year.