The Burford Singers

Performing a Requiem rather than a Passion on the Sunday before Easter might seem, initially, rather inappropriate. But when that Requiem is Brahms's German Requiem, with its focus on hope and comfort for the living, and its strong central message of the certainty of resurrection, its aptness becomes readily apparent.

The Burford Singers' Palm Sunday offering at Burford Parish Church was notable for the fact that it was performed with the composer's own arrangement for piano duo accompaniment, brilliantly sustained by David Nettle and Richard Markham, who also delighted the capacity audience with a tasty appetiser of four of Brahms's Hungarian dances. A contrast indeed to what was to follow, but none the worse for that.

The choir, as always, sang stylishly and compellingly, their diction perfect, their interpretation shining with sincerity. Conductor Brian Kay made sure the pace never flagged, giving the piece an immediacy that was utterly enthralling. Just occasionally, everything sounded a touch frantic, and the sopranos seemed to lose control of some of their top notes; the high "Blessed" of the opening Consolation and the closing Rest and Redemption lacked clarity, and sounded a little strained. But, overall, this was a gallant effort, and if the singers were looking a little weary by the end, it was hardly surprising after such intensity.

Baritone soloist Michael George sang Hope and Trust with authority and conviction, bringing to both numbers a wonderfully lush tone and real depth of feeling. His second solo, Trust, was particularly thrilling, and underpinned by some solid support from the choir. Julie Kennard sang the soprano solo, Grief and Comfort, strongly and decisively, but sounded rather strident; a little more empathy with the words would have lent the piece greater warmth.

This was a wonderful prelude to Easter weekend, from what is surely one of the most disciplined and technically assured choirs in the county.