A Night to Remember: Royston Choral Society in Outstanding Form
What an unforgettable evening of music it proved to be, as Royston Choral Society and East Herts Sinfonia came together for a concert of remarkable ambition and artistry.
The programme opened with Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen by Gustav Mahler, delivered with exquisite poise by soprano Nina Bennet. A former Royal College of Music student and seasoned international performer, she brought both experience and artistry to the platform. Her performance was a masterclass in control and warmth, holding the audience in rapt silence. The final phrase, followed by Mahler’s delicate orchestral coda, created a moment of stillness so complete it left the church utterly spellbound.
This was followed by Songs of the Sea by Charles Villiers Stanford, featuring international baritone Gareth Brynmor John. A winner of the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Award and a regular performer with major orchestras and opera companies, he is a singer of significant distinction. Singing at the height of his powers, he brought vivid colour and imagination to every phrase, shaping the text with clarity and authority. The chorus matched him with energy and precision, while the orchestra combined power with finesse to compelling effect.
The second half was devoted to A German Requiem by Johannes Brahms—a work of immense scale and emotional depth. Royston Choral Society rose magnificently to the challenge, delivering a performance that would not have been out of place among far more established ensembles. Their stamina, commitment, and attention to detail were evident throughout, from finely shaped phrases to striking dynamic contrasts that held the audience’s attention from first note to last.
East Herts Sinfonia, comprising many of the area’s finest musicians, provided a superbly responsive foundation. Led by violinist Emily Groom, the orchestra played with cohesion, sensitivity, and brilliance, underpinning the choir with a rich and assured sound. The soloists in the Requiem added further distinction, lifting the performance to truly memorable heights.
This concert marked a significant milestone for Royston Choral Society, showcasing not only their ambition but the exceptional standard of music-making within the local community. Performances of this scale are rare among amateur groups, and rarer still when achieved with such polish and conviction alongside a full professional orchestra.
An outstanding evening—and one that will live long in the memory.