A Night at the Opera: YPC’s Dazzling Summer Concert

‘A Night at the Opera’ theme for our summer concert was a new direction for YPC, one which opened the door to the wonderful world of opera. 

For several weeks the choir has enjoyed the challenge of learning a selection of opera choruses in Italian, French, German… and English, culminating in what must be one of our most breathtaking and life-affirming concerts ever.

The whole programme took on an added dimension when we were joined by our four outstanding soloists, all who have extensive experience in opera: Louise Wayman (Soprano), Beth Moxon (Mezzo Soprano), Seàn Ruane (Tenor), and Paul Gibson (Baritone). 

Paul Gibson, Louise Wayman, Seàn Ruane, Beth Moxon

To have the opportunity to sit back and listen to these truly remarkable performers take us through every emotion as they brought their arias to life was an absolute joy and a privilege to be in such company. The audience was spellbound by the exhilarating performances of both choir and soloists. The best seats in La Scala, Milan couldn’t have offered a better evening! 

Our thanks go to our inspirational Musical Director, Thom Meredith, who curated the music for this concert so skilfully, with the themes and creative mix of choruses, arias, trios and duets. Thom has worked tirelessly in rehearsals with the choir to achieve the glorious sound that would hold up well in any opera house.

Everyone would agree, the musician who deserves all the accolades for success of the performance has to be our wonderful accompanist, Alex Woodrow. For over two hours he held the whole evening together with his stunning accompaniment on piano and chamber organ, capturing the breadth of style and emotions from the serenity of Purcell and Handel to the passion and drama of Bizet, Verdi and Wagner. 

Thom Meredith and Alex Woodrow

Overall, an incredible evening of magnificent music, in the majestic setting of the cathedral, that touched the hearts and delighted everyone present.