Surrey Heath Singers delivered a delightful concert on Saturday evening, featuring baritone soloist Ian Helm. The program offered a journey through diverse musical landscapes, lead by our conductor Ed Bonner.
The first half opened with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Five Mystical Songs,” showcasing Helm’s rich baritone alongside the choir’s nuanced harmonies. It transitioned seamlessly into Charles Villiers Stanford’s evocative “Songs of the Fleet,” a tribute to the seafaring life. The interval provided a welcome respite before returning to Vaughan Williams’ “Songs of Travel,” a poignant exploration of human experience through the eyes of a wanderer.
The second half shifted gears with Frank Bridge’s introspective “Three Miniature Pastorals” for piano, offering a moment of serene reflection, played wonderfully by Geoff Tuson on piano. The concert culminated in Edward Elgar’s “From the Bavarian Highlands,” a vibrant suite capturing the essence of the region, from lively dances to tender lullabies.
Ian Helm’s captivating performance and the choir’s masterful execution made for a truly memorable evening. The thoughtfully curated program offered something for everyone, showcasing the versatility of both the performers and the chosen composers.