Page 384 - Liverpool Philharmonic 22-23 Season Coverage Book

The connection between those on stage and attendees had been lacking in the first piece but
became more apparent as the evening went on. This was helped by having the soloists facing
the audience.

There was a relatively small orchestral ensemble for the first half. Creating an intimate feel in the
room, it allowed the skill of the musicians to really show in comparison to the drama of the
second half, where the complexity of Mozart’s Requiem can perhaps make playing so well look
effortless.

Oscillating between the delicately gentle and the rousingly rambunctious, the second half had
everybody captivated. The prodigious talent of Mozart is a must for any listener. Evolving the
concert to include a full choir, expanded orchestra and appearances from the soloists, Mozart’s
Requiem ramped up the atmosphere.

It is a thrillingly poignant piece. Offering complex layering of both the orchestra and the choir, and
duets and quartets between the soloists, it has a heartrending, pleading intensity. The musicians
conveyed a sense of wrestling with mortality.

Here, the voice of Randem came to the fore, making the high notes appear effortless. Appl,
Jackson and Pancrazi blended beautifully together and shone in solo sections, giving a cohesive
performance between them.

All in all, it was a wonderful rendition of the Requiem and a well-chosen collection of music. Parts
of the audience were on their feet in appreciation as the concert closed.

For future productions and performances, view Liverpool Philharmonic’s website here.

Reviewer: Ezzy LaBelle

Reviewed: 18th February 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★