Ely Choral Society concert at St Marys Church review

While the programme contained music for a sacred place, therefore mostly on religious themes, the pieces were short and among some of the most effective and popular.

I particularly liked Locus iste by Anton Bruckner, How Lovely are they Dwellings by Brahms, the Ave Marias especially the one by Lindley and Cantique de Jean Racine by Faure.

These were featured in the first half of the programme.

Celebrated conductor leads Ely Youth Choir in unforgettable sacred music concert (Image: Rosemary Westwell)

Ely Youth Choir was the highlight of the second half with their beautiful performance of All things Bright and Beautiful by Sir John Rutter.

Their performance of the first Ave Maria by Lindley was exceptional.

Ely Choral Society excelled with a gorgeous bass line featured in the Locu este, and under Andrew Parnell's expertise, the choir sang with precision, and varied dynamics that created exciting climaxes.

It was very expressive even with single words, bringing the meaning of the works alive.

Glen Demspey accompanied supportively when needed, for much of the music was unaccompanied.

He also added variety to the programme by playing two organ solos which were admirable: a triumphant Imperial March by Elgar and a cohesive, sustained Fugue in A minor by Brahms.

Glen Demspsey organist (Image: Rosemary Westwell)

Ely Youth Choir joined in with a number of items and when everyone performed the final Zadok the Priest by Handel, the church was filled with glorious sound - an excellent finale for a fine concert.

The encore: The Long Day Closes by Sullivan, was of a different character and most fitting for the last item of the evening.

It was languid and soothing, filled with charming sustained harmonies.

This was indeed a wonderful concert.

Ely Choral Society may be heard again at their next concert on Saturday October, 26 at 7.30pm in St Mary's Church, Ely.

The group will be performing Chichester Psalms, Bernstein, Requiem, Rutter.