ED2015 4/5 Reviews ED2015 Music Reviews

Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis (Edinburgh International Festival)

By Louise Rodgers | Published on Monday 31 August 2015

This was operatic in its attention to the contrasts of emotion of the sacred text. In a church mass, reverence is expressed not just by words and music but by gestures such as bowing or kneeling; concert performers only have sound to convey sanctity. The Scottish Chamber Orchestra attacked the score with conviction and the chorus both pleaded and triumphed; I loved the mighty Gloria. Describing the incarnation of Christ the choir and orchestra became hushed, almost holding their collective breath. The soloists seamlessly wove their parts into the unity of the mass, tenor Michael Shade was compelling, mezzo soprano Gerhild Romburge and soprano Genia Kühmeier glorious. The dignity of Georg Zeppenfeld, bass, was a sermon in itself.

Usher Hall, 29 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Louise Rodgers]