This was a religious service and was sung by the full St. Philip’s choir but was also advertised as a “Libera” performance so I guess it is ok to report it here.
The “orchestra” was made up of hand-picked individual musicians true to the original score. They were positioned in front and conducted by RP. The full St. Philip’s choir behind consisted of 29 trebles, 5 altos, 6 tenors and 6 basses. There were also 5 juniors who for the most part occupied the front pew but joined the full choir for about five movements.
The solo quartet for Tuba Mirum was Sam Coates (bass), Simon B (tenor). Camden (contralto), and Gabe (soprano). This was one of the highlights for me.
For Recordare the quartet was Sam Coates (bass), Big Ben, (tenor), Alessandro (contralto) and Merlin (soprano).
Final solo quartet for Benedictus was Simon L (bass), Simon B (tenor), Isaac (contralto), Alex M (soprano.
The quartets moved to the front of the orchestra and arranged themselves in order of height (tallest to the left) which was very effective staging.
This was a magnificent and memorable performance by all involved and a great privilege to have been a witness to it. After the blessing Father Younis invited the congregation (who apart from an opening hymn had remained silent thus far) to show their appreciation. It was easy to tell that it had been bursting to do so. Enthusiastic applause went on for several minutes. Robert then returned to the stage to conduct the choir in an a capella psalm or canticle which was followed by more appreciative applause.
By the way, Google the musicians. You will be amazed by some of their credentials.
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Thanks to Patrick for scanning the program