Romsey’s ancient Abbey inspires at any time, but on a few, special occasions, it becomes a truly remarkable place.

Last Saturday was just such an occasion in Romsey’s vibrant music culture, with the visit of Southampton Choral Society, the celebrating its 80th anniversary, with a memorable performance of Mozart’s Requiem and Solemn Vespers.

The huge ancient stone columns holding up the vast roof, were brilliantly lit; the expectant audience filled the nave, and side aisles, where every part of the event can be seen, thanks to a state-of-the-art audio-visual setup.

The vast choir, (I counted exactly 80 singers - was this planned, too?) on a raised dais for maximum visual and aural effect, especially the mighty cry of “REX!”

Picture by H4PhotoPicture by H4Photo (Image: H4Photos) The concert began with the Vespers, which includes the justly celebrated “Laudate Dominum”, sung here superbly by soprano Esther Mallett.

She, with fellow soloists Lewis Cullen, Edward Woodhouse and Benjamin Watkins formed a beautifully balanced quartet in both pieces, complementing the choir, responding well to Andrew Hayman’s precise, expressive direction, and well supported by the skilled orchestra.

These players came into their own in the well-known Mozart suite “Ein Kleine Nachtmusik”, between the choral pieces.  

A packed, appreciative Abbey audience, included two Mayors and one Lord Mayor; Councillor Dave Shields, Lord Mayor of Southampton, Councillor Ian Jeffery, Mayor of Test Valley Borough and Councillor John Parker, Mayor of Romsey Town.

The Southampton Choral Society’s next visit to Romsey will be to perform Brahms masterpiece, Ein Deutsches Requiem on May 10. Book early to avoid disappointment.