Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius in concert

Visual Arts Editor, James Macfarlane, writes on Durham University Choral Society

After seeing a stellar performance of Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius at the BBC Proms last summer, I was thrilled to find out this work was to be Durham University Choral Society’s Epiphany Term project. Following their recent performative successes, including Vaughan Williams’ A Sea Symphony and a choral reimagination of Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, evidently nothing is too ambitious for this accomplished ensemble.

Involving over one hundred of the university’s finest choral singers, 26 February saw The Sage, Gateshead filled with a mélange of majestic Elgarian schmaltz and robust, cataclysmic dynamism. Singing alongside Cleveland Philharmonic Choir to Huntley for her rich timbre, inspiring an angelic, glowing power. Pearse’s roles were conveyed with true conviction, sharing his resounding tone, creating an inexpressibly profound stage presence.

Nothing is too ambitious for this accomplished ensemble

Lloyd-Roberts also deserves ine able credit for igniting the work’s captivating narrative, battling through illness, sharing his powerful quasi-recitative approach, truly living and breathing the gerontic role. The concert was a success and DUCS are indebted to Cleveland