Lunchtime Recitals
Wednesday 11th March
Paul Theaker – Guitar
St. The warmth of Mediterranean sunshine was cast over the audience in St. Mary’s when classical guitarist, Paul Theaker, presented his recital of Music from Spain on 11th March. His first pieces were composed for the vihuela, a Spanish instrument, similar to a lute, used in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries in Spain.Paul’s small guitar was played with a capo to bring the sound as close to that of a vihuela as possible. Paul explained how many of these pieces were originally folk songs, while many, such as the Sonato by Enrique de Valdorrabano were composed as “sounded” pieces rather than sung. Some were transcriptions from parts of the Mass. Many often had an Italian feel, since musicians travelled to the various European courts, but still retained the Moorish influence. The Gallarda by Alonzo Mudarra was the first guitar piece ever to be published.
Exchanging the small guitar for a larger one, Paul next played six Spanish folk songs from different parts of Spain, each with its own delightful individuality. Finally came three pieces written by Paul himself, recalling his own memories of Spain, A la nanita nana (a gentle lullaby), Playa (The Beach) and Valencia, evoking at one point the huge bells of the cathedral.
This was Paul’s first recital in St. Mary’s. His expert playing, enthusiasm for his instrument and his recollections of meeting famous classical guitarists left the audience wishing for more and hoping that he will return on a future occasion.
Thank you Shirley for the review
For future concerts see our
events diaryIf you would like us to add your email address to our list for sending details of upcoming recitals (the second Wednesday of every month), please email friendsofstmarys@talktalk.net or facebook.com/FriendsOfStMarysHalesworth where you can also find details of previous recitals.
PLEASE CONTACT US if you would be willing to write a review, take photos or even perhaps provide a recital yourself! (fully booked for 2019, thanks to all of our recitalists)
Wednesday 8th April – Veronica Downing and Jason Busby
POSTPONED
April recital was going be Veronica and Jason performing : ‘Mostly Purcell – Music, Love & Trumpets!’
However, due to the coronavirus issue, Diocesan advice means that unfortunately the monthly recit-als are cancelled for the foreseeable future.
We will advise via email (if we hold this), facebook, website and the usual posters once recitals can be resumed. In the meantime, hope everyone stays well.
50/50 Club Winners for January:
1st Prize: M Fleming2nd Prize: M Morton
3rd Prize: R O'Leary
If you would like to join the 50/50 club, forms can be found on the table by the North door.
or click here