PASSION OF CHRIST

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXIV, Issue 93, 3 April 1934, Page 8

PASSION OF CHRIST

St. Matthew’s Performance

Ou Good Friday night. St. Matthew's Church, Hastings, was full to the doors when Dr. Somervell’s “Passion of Christ ' was sung by the choir. It was an evening that will long be remembered and cherished by all who were privileged to hear such beautiful music in surroundings so fitting in every way. The balance of parts and general ensemble was excellent, and the solos and choruses were splendidly sung, showing much careful thought and preparation. In the alto solo, “Flow Fast, My Tears,” Miss Dorothy Symonds carried the congregation with her to the end. “Is it Nothing to You?” a soprano solo with chorus, sung by Miss Des Forges, who has a very full voice of rich quality, made a great appeal, and the pianissimo singing was very beautiful indeed. The part of Jesus was taken by Mr. W. A. Bryant, who treated it with great dignity and feeling. The narrative of the oratoria was sung by Mr. W. Lord, who made the most of a difficult part. Mention must also be made of the baritone solo, “Lord Jesus How Can I.” which was sung with great feeling by Mr. Bryant, and also the Lord's solo, “Yet, Though I Walk.” Other soloists were Mr. F. S. Thomas (Pilate), and Mr R. Warwick (Malefactor). The people of Hastings are indeed fortunate to have in their midst a choirmaster and organist of Mr. C. B. Spinney’s ability, and a choir able to perform such a work in such a dev o tional manner.