The story of Easter is the crucifixion and it was set so beautifully by Pergolesi Stabat Mater and performed in small format by Greta Claringbould, Tobias Cole and Linus Lee, upstairs at Smiths. It's the story of Mary at the Cross as her son dies. This setting was a smallish room, bedecked for the occasion with candles and lit with a cone of light against on a red background. Just perfect except for a lighting malfunction of auto strobe strobe lighting. But these are professionals and the music still spoke for itself and we could all laugh about it after, perhaps in relief at the music of intense tragedy and deep faith that Pergolesi presents. Certainly, the death was obvious as the music temporarily collapsed into emptiness. Then recovered with reference to the devotees. Toby and Greta matched voices at time, these are high voices, harmonised with intense beauty at others, singing over the essential presence of the Linus' piano with introductions that are so well recognised. This was a work of great beauty done by wonderfully capable and responsive local performers. Another immensely touching memory for this Easter.
Pergolesi Stabat Mater was presented as Vigil at McGregor Hall at Smiths Alternative by Greta Claringbould (soprano), Tobias Cole (countertenor) and Linus Lee (piano).
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