Oxford's oldest student newspaper

Independent since 1920

Review: Choir of Merton College – In the Beginning

Having watched Merton Choir perform the same programme at their excellent concert in May, I had high hopes for the CD. Under the direction of Benjamin Nicholas and Peter Phillips, the chapel choir’s debut release confirms their position as among the best in Oxford and foretells exciting possibilities for the choir’s celebrations of the 750th anniversary of the college in 2014.

The CD comprises of a selection of sacred works spanning the sixteenth and twentieth centuries, all based upon two Biblical texts. The choir’s flexibility of sound-world between works creates a range of colours, helping to bring the individual character of each different piece to life. Particularly impressive was the choir’s clarity of texture in Nicolas Gombert’s 16th century motet, ‘Lugebat David Absalon’, Peter Phillip’s expertise at early polyphony helping to extract each individual line and encouraging attentive interaction between parts. The long, legato lines in works such as Gabriel Jackson’s ‘In the Beginning was the Word’ help to create a timeless feel, allowing the pure beauty of the choir’s sound to emerge. A standout interpretation was American composer Eric Whitacre’s ‘When David Heard’, in which the raw emotion of the choir and the noteworthy soloist Guy Cutting helped to bring some real presence to the piece.

Throughout all pieces, the choir’s excellent shaping of phrases is apparent. They really embrace the dynamic markings, taking joy in filling Merton Chapel with a full and round sound. This is especially apparent in Aaron Copland’s ‘In the Beginning’, a piece which captures the dynamism of the singers. The slight prominence of the soprano section helps to create a luminosity which suits the repertoire well. Although the balance between soloists and ensemble at times needed adjusting in some works, it is brilliant to see such talent come from within the choir.

In The Beginning is a very enjoyable release. It showcases the choir’s talents well, although the atmosphere of a live performance cannot be captured. I would definitely recommend the CD and look forward to their next.

Check out our other content

Most Popular Articles