SOLOMON'S TRIUMPH
Solomon's wisdom is famous; Handel's oratorio of the same name less so. However, a packed
audience were wise enough to spend Saturday evening in Rochester Cathedral hearing a
splendid performance by the Gravesham Choral Society and Orchestra. 'Solomon' is
less frequently performed than many of Handel's other works and is consequently less
familiar. The work may well have been heard for the first time by the majority of
the audience, although everyone will have recognised the 'Arrival of the Queen of
Sheba' at the beginning of Act 3.
Handel wrote the entire piece in just over five weeks in May and June 1748.
He was inclined during his career to marathon periods of composing - perhaps he worked
best, like so many others in modern times, when up against a tight deadline. Certainly,
he left the choir, orchestra and soloists breathless by the end of the evening.
The one key person who emanated calm control throughout a long morning rehearsal
and the evening performance was the conductor, Alan Vincent, who again drew
the highest standards from everyone under his baton.
All five soloists performed extremely well, combining their singing with some
dramatic interpretations. James Huw Jeffries [Counter-Tenor] as Solomon, Robin
Green [Tenor], Patrizia Kwella [Soprano], Christina Wilson [Mezzo-Soprano] and John
Harding [Bass] all deserved praise for mastering the intricacies of Handel's arias.
The orchestra, under the leadership of John Ludlow, supported the entire performance
very musically. It is a marathon work and there were few breathers, particularly
for those playing the continuo parts where the contributions of Marion Whitehead
[harpsichord] and Geoffrey Lester [organ] deserve special mention.
The choir, who have been rehearsing since January, peaked at exactly the
right time and produced a very accurate and near-faultless performance
of the many choruses. Attention to detail is the hallmark of Gravesham's
concerts and this was no exception.
A thoroughly enjoyable musical experience for all involved.
Copyright © Gravesham Choral Society 2006