Winter Nights: Sydney Chamber Choir – REVIEW
Image: WINTER NIGHTS by Sydney Chamber Choir 24 June, 2023. Photo by Robert Catto
On a clear, still winter night, in the cosy setting of The Neilson in Walsh Bay, the dulcet harmonies of the Sydney Chamber Choir warmed hearts and souls with a pleasing program of French tunes.
With conductor, Sam Allchurch at the helm, the ensemble performed works by noted classical and contemporary composers, sometimes singing a capella, sometimes with the backing of a jazz trio featuring Steve Barry (piano), Hannah James (double bass) and George Greenhill (drums).
Conductor Sam Allchurch. Photo by Robert Catto
Allchurch shared his role with esteemed musician and member of popular vocal group, The Idea of North, Naomi Crellin. Crellin arranged the more contemporary pieces which included “Ne Me Quitte Pas” (Jacques Brel), “April In Paris” (Vernon Duke/Yip Harburg), “La Vie En Rose” (Louiguy/Edith Piaf), “Windmills Of Your Mind” (Michel Legrand/Alan and Marilyn Bergman) and “La Belle Dame Sans Regrets” (Sting and Dominic Miller).
Each song was given its own distinctive treatment, with Crellin sharing lead vocals and even whistling duties with choir soloists in many of the songs.
A selection of songs were performed by guest artist, Jo Lawry, who brought vim and vivaciousness to the stage in addition to stunning vocals.
Allchurch conducted the choir is a selection of classical and modern works by composers including Claude Debussy, Heather Percy, Francis Poulenc, Maurice Ravel, and Eric Whitacre.
Cabaret tables with low lit lamps helped set the mood in the intimate Neilson space. The wooden interiors added to the warmth as well as providing ideal acoustics.
It was a very pleasant, relaxed evening with intuitively curated program. The proximity of the performers to the audience helped create a convivial atmosphere.
The Sydney Chamber Choir holds concerts throughout the year.
Visit their website for information on what’s coming up.
