Shedding new light

The City of Glasgow Chorus has been going strong for over 30 years, appearing on stage with big names such as Russell Watson and Lesley Garrett and even joining the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra for the Glasgow dates of the Star Wars in Concert world tour.

So far, so glitzy — but far from settling for those well-loved pieces sure to pack in the crowds, the chorus has always set out to showcase lesser-known pieces to the city’s dedicated music fans — and the Saturday concert is no exception.

The first half of the performance will focus on Dvorak’s Mass in D (1887) — a lyrical, playful piece of music inspired by the composer’s biggest influences; Wagner, Brahms and the folk music of Bohemia.

The second half takes a new direction with Maurice Durufle’s Requiem (1947) — often compared to the work of French compatriot Gabriel Faure for its subtle rhythms, Gregorian chant and romantic composition.

The City of Glasgow Chorus aren’t the only Glasgow-based musicians in the limelight for this show, as they’re joined by student soloists from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formerly RSAMD).

Soprano Kamilla Dunstan is studying for her masters in music performance and has performed at St Paul’s Cathedral in London (among others) in the past.

Baritone Euros Campbell is undertaking the masters vocal studies programme and has a wealth of experience on the national stage.

And the man behind them all for the night is David Hamilton — organist at Strathclyde University — who will accompany on the renowned Wellington Church instrument.

Conducting for the evening is the City of Glasgow Chorus’ music director, Graham Taylor MBE — the same man who founded the choir back in 1983.

On the upcoming performance, he commented: “Both works are being performed by the chorus for the first time.

“The Dvorak, in particular, sees a continuation of our aim to perform lesser known works by mainstream composers.

“The Durufle is a work of unique character which I’m sure will be further enhanced by the addition of our two young soloists from the Royal Conservatoire.”

For fans of choral music, this is one concert which is worth the trip across the Clyde — next stop, Hillhead.

nThe City of Glasgow Chorus perform at the Wellington Church (University Avenue) on Saturday, 7.30pm. Tickets from 332 2333 or [email protected].