Described as “phenomenal” (The Times) and “devastatingly beautiful” (Gramophone Magazine), award-winning choir Tenebrae is one of the world’s leading vocal ensembles, renowned for its passion and precision. That is their promise, and my goodness they certainly deliver just that.
Under the expert direction of their Conductor, Nigel Short, Tenebrae opened the 85th season of Marlborough College Concert Series with a scintillating 25th anniversary celebratory programme. There was a huge range of style and musical genre on display – quite literally something to suit every musical taste – with a few exquisite special commissions thrown in too, most notably perhaps Going to Heaven by Joanna Marsh (b.1970) and Journey by Jason Max Ferdinand (b.1977).
The absolute highlight, however, was Tenebrae’s performance of Francis Poulenc’s Figure humaine, of which the composer wrote “I believe that this is what I have done best. It is a major work for me…..if not for French music”. How true.
From beginning to end, Tenebrae unleashed a cascade of quality music-making to the delight of the packed Chapel. Quality of sound has to be top of the list here, with perfect intonation and a massive range: gloriously resonant bass lines coupled with extraordinary high soprano lines, and none more impressive than the very final note of the Poulenc, which is a famous top E. Balance was also impeccable throughout, all brilliantly and impressively crafted by Nigel Short.
What a joy then to behold this splendid occasion, and which so effectively lit the touch paper for the glorious season that lies ahead.
Philip Dukes
Artistic Director, Marlborough College Concert Series
