Review by Virginia Gallagher: Hamilton Chorale at Raglan Union Church, Saturday 1st May 2010
A small but enthusiastic crowd gathered at the Union Church on Saturday 1st May for a concert by the Hamilton Chorale. Entitled Celtic Weavings, the programme consisted of music with a Celtic theme. The music was an interesting mix from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, some of it well known, and other pieces new to the audience.
The opening bracket, under the heading ‘Call to Celebrate’ was bright introductory music, John Peel and Comin’ Thro’ the Rye were particularly memorable. In the next bracket ‘In Quiet Moments’ the tempo was more relaxed and highlighted the choir’s versatility. Then the audience was invited to participate, and soon all were joining in with Loch Lomond and Annie Laurie.
The next bracket ‘Lassies and Laddies’ gave the different sections of the choir a chance to come to the fore. In several numbers for ladies voices only, the careful blending of three parts was a joy to listen to. The men particularly enjoyed their solo numbers; in ‘The Star of the County Down’ they kept up a cracking pace, much to the enjoyment of the audience. More sing-along with slower numbers My Love is Like a Red Red Rose and Danny Boy. Once again the audience sang with gusto, although some of the higher notes were beyond some audience members!
The final bracket ‘The Old Country Calling’ reminded us that many in the church that day have Celtic roots, and could relate to the beautiful music that has become so well known in New Zealand. The masterful arrangement of ‘I Know Where I’m Going’ was particularly memorable, and the rousing ‘Molly Malone brought the most enjoyable concert to an end.
Ably assisted by accompanist Elisabeth Murray, the conductor Julie Jackson-Gough should be very pleased with this concert. She succeeded in blending the 30 strong choir into a group that was a pleasure to listen to. The imaginative addition of the ladies’ coloured scarves, representing Scotland, Ireland and Wales, enhanced the Celtic theme. It is a pity that more people did not come out in the chilly autumn weather to hear this capable group of singers. Hopefully, they will come to Raglan again to perform.
Thank you to the lovely people who came, enjoyed and participated in our concert. It was a lovely afternoon, and we appreciated the people who came, and the wonderful feedback that we received. I think the consensus is that we would like to return to Raglan again with one of our future concerts.
Julie Jackson-Gough
Musical Director, Hamilton Chorale