Audience listens to Shanna playing the Willis organ
From just after 11am on Thursday 18th August the sound of our magnificently restored Willis Organ could be heard floating out of the west door and into the the curtilage of the church. It brought in some curious passers-by, who not only came in to listen, but also decided to stay for the concert.
It seemed to that our array of posters attracted many audience members who had not planned to hear a concert that day!
Together with our regular TT@TT goers, we were given an amazing feast of beautiful music, superbly played.
Shanna at the Willis console
Shanna Hart delighted the audience with this programme:
Fantasia in G ('Pièce d'Orgue') BWV 572 Très vitement - Grave - Lentement J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
Vesper Voluntary III, Op. 14, no.3 Edward Elgar (1857-1934)
Psalm Prelude Set 1 (Op. 32) no.3 Herbert Howells (1892-1983)
Vesper Voluntary V Elgar
Shanna responds to the audience
Sonata no.1 in D minor, Op.42 Alexandre Guilmant (1837-1911)
- Introduction (Larg e maestros) et Allegro
- Pastorale: Andante quasi Allegro
- Finale: Allegro assai
The pieces chosen gave Shanna the opportunity to show the great diversity of sound and emotion that the organ can produce.
The Fantasia began so quietly and delicately, almost like distant raindrops, the pedal solo in Guilmant's first sonata and the trumpet solos at the beginning and end were just some of the contrasts so beautifully played.
Lesley and the audience
Howells' Psalm Prelude, alluding to Psalm 23:4 illustrated poignantly "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thy rod and thy staff will comfort me."
It was a splendid concert and one the audience will remember - thank you Shanna for sharing your skill and talent with us. Thank you also to those who generously donated £90 for our organ fund.
Words and photos by Lesley Salter
