April 22, 2018
Vivaldi choral orchestral concert
Music lovers were in for a treat in Castlebar Church when a unique concert by ladies’ choir Vocalessence in association with Mayo Concert Orchestra sees them combine talents to perform some of the most uplifting and beloved choral and instrumental works of Italian composer, Antonio Vivaldi.
Celebrating Vivaldi’s sacred Gloria church choral work in particular, the concert will also feature the Spring and Summer movements from Vivaldi’s famous Four Seasons violin concerti and include guest performances from celebrated oboist David Agnew, playing Concerto in D as well as Mayo vocal group Voxfusion.
Vocalessence ladies’ choir was established in 2014 with members coming from all over Mayo. The group performs a number of concerts each year and, according to Musical Director, Kathy Fahey, has developed a love for exploring classical music and delving into the full choral and oratorial works of certain composers over time.
“So we have decided to tap into that with the upcoming Gloria-themed concert and look forward to regular performances of further oratorial work in Mayo”, said Ms Fahey.
She added that Mayo Concert Orchestra is also very much up to its task of performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons (Le quattro stagioni) during the concert, which gives musical expression to each of the four seasons of the year through complex and engaging pieces for strings.
“When I joined the orchestra as Musical Director in 2016 I had a vision of choral work accompaniment as one dream for Mayo Concert Orchestra rather than people having to travel to Dublin and Galway for such musical occasions. We have incredible talent here on our doorstep so it is only right that we celebrate this fantastic resource at home”, she said.
The venue for this exceptional Vivaldi choral orchestral event is Castlebar’s Church of the Holy Rosary on Sunday April 22nd next where the combination of approximately 70 musicians and singers will perform from the pulpit, accompanied by outstanding organist, Leonard Dorrian.
The Musical Director is extremely grateful to the priests of Castlebar parish for being so supportive in offering the perfect venue of the church for the staging of the sacred instrumental and choral works of the 18th century composer, virtuouso violinist and priest.
“I particularly wish to thank Fr Conal Eustace who has embraced the entire concept. He first came on board when we approached him to stage Messiah in the Church at Christmas and it drew a huge audience of over 400 people. Vivaldi’s Spring and Summer movements are bright and upbeat and perfect music to be hearing at this time of year. Also Vivaldi’s Gloria oratorio belongs in a mass setting so it is very fitting to have this as a church performance”, said Ms Fahey.
Fr Eustace in turn has extended congratulations to Vocalessence for organising such an important concert in Castlebar church for the people of Mayo and beyond to enjoy.
“Personally I am a fan of Vivaldi and am delighted we can celebrate his work here at home. The Church of the Holy Rosary is a perfect venue for the music of this celebrated composer priest and the acoustics are excellent.”
Kay McGuire, Chairperson of Vocalessence, stated that the ladies of the choir have embraced the challenge of learning and performing the 12 chorus’ of Vivaldi’s Gloria.’
“The ladies feel it is a very special Oratorio having been composed in particular for the female voice and that they are very privileged to be able to present such a piece of work in the beautiful church of the Holy Rosary.’