MORE than 120 people turned out for the UK premiere of a Worcester composer Ian Venables’ Venetian Songs.
The Orchestra of St John (OSJ), with Richard Jenkinson conducting, performed the piece at the historic St John’s Church in Bromsgrove on October 14.
Prior to the concert Mr Venables chatted to music critic Christopher Morley about the music, its origins and his reasons for writing.
The pair then joined the audience to listen to the performance. The orchestra was also joined by ‘India’s finest tenor’ Anando Mukerjee.
Mr Venables said he was absolutely delighted with the performance.
“It was a great privilege to hear the OSJ give the premiere of my Venetian Songs.
“The orchestral playing throughout was of the highest calibre and their indefatigable conductor, Richard Jenkinson and outstanding young tenor, Anando Mukerjee shaped the cycle into a powerfully expressive whole.
“It was truly memorable evening and one I will treasure.”
Mr Jenkinson described the chance to give the world premiere as ‘a delight’.
“Ian Venables is one of the most distinguished of living English song smiths and his music is a joy to perform.
“Performing these wonderful songs with our outstanding tenor, Anando Mukerjee was a real treat.”
And the orchestra’s chairman Alastair Moseley added he was extremely proud of those performing on such a special occasion.
“The church is a glorious building to perform in because the acoustics are excellent.
“We really lifted the roof tonight and the level of appreciation from the audience was heartwarming. What a wonderful evening.
“It was definitely something for St John’s and Bromsgrove to be proud of.”
Music critic Christopher Morley gave the concert four stars in his published review – the same score as the CBSO at Symphony Hall and the Mariinsky Orcestra.
The Orchestra’s next concert will be the perfect prelude to Christmas. A Winter Fantasy featuring The Snowman and A Winter Bonfire will be staged on November 25.
Visit www.osjbromsgrove.org for more information.
