Artiste: Bristol Choral Society

Vaughan Williams and Finzi given the Philharmonia treatment with John Wilson at the helm at the Royal Festival Hall.

Esa-Pekka Salonen a ouvert la saison du Philharmonia avec un Requiem de Berlioz tout en tension, entraînant, épique, et pourtant restreint par la salle du Royal Festival Hall.

In a concert of two halves, the Philharmonia fail to convince with Suk and Dvořák but provide a thrilling rendition of Janáček's Glagolitic Mass, a choral work that is dramatic, operatic, giant in scale and unique in style.

Many people have triggers to make them feel seasonal, and this evening’s concert was no doubt a source for many audience members. Festive cheer spread around Bristol’s Colston Hall for an evening of joyous music celebrating the Christmas story with Handel’s Messiah.