Tafelmusik – Handel, Rameau and Charpentier

Reviewed by Paula Citron

Handel Dixit Dominus
Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir
Sacred Works by Rameau, Charpentier and Handel
Conducted by Ivars Taurins
Trinity-St. Paul’s Centre
Nov. 11 to 14, 2010

There’s nothing like a Tafelmusik choral concert to bring out the crowds, and that Ivars Taurins also conducted was a bonus.

The program included Rameau’s Grand motet “In convertendo Dominus” and Charpentier’s Salve Regina. The big number was Handel’s Dixit Dominus. As always, the works were programmed to show a theme, in this case, the French tradition (Rameau), the Italian tradition (Handel), and a fusion between both (Charpentier and polyphony).

Taurin’s Tafelmusik Chamber Choir breathes as one, and sings as one. There is never any rogue voice. It is simply one of the greatest choirs in the country. As for the Tafelmusik Orchestra, it is a first rate ensemble when it comes to early music practice.

Making beautiful music along side local tenor Lawrence Wiliford and mezzo-soprano Vicki St. Pierre, were Dutch soprano Johannette Zomer and British baritone Peter Harvey. Zomer can flatten her voice but it still soars, while Harvey produces a robust yet sweet sound.

It was a most satisfying concert.