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| Leo Geyer conducts EMG Symphony Orchestra Mahler's Fifth Symphony Exeter Cathedral Saturday 17 November (photography: Paula Fernley) |
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| The Horn Section prepare in the Chapter House Principal Horn Beth Osment (3rd from right) |
Leo introduced the music briefly from the rostrum before conducting. His voice carries well in the Cathedral nave, and his explanations were brief and easy to follow.
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| Condutor & Leader Leo Geyer & Clare Smith |
In addition violinist Audrey Williams (who is also the organist at the Church of St John the Evangelist in Withycombe Raleigh, Exmouth) had written detailed programme notes outlining the history of the composition and its relevance in Mahler's own life. In particular it was interesting to read that the fourth movement was a love song to Alma Schindler. Gustav and Alma were married in the same year the Fifth Symphony was completed.
Central to the whole composition is the resounding brass and percussion. Brian Moore, the regular principal trumpet sadly was not able to join the orchestra to play the opening trumpet fanfare, and recurring theme, but Tony Hindley stood in magnificently, playing a faultless solo to open proceedings, with powerful support from the other trumpetters, and Charles Dowell's trombones - not to mention Rob O'Byrne's stentorian tuba!
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| Harp: Susan Sherratt |
Other notable contributions were from Beth Osment who is now Principal French Horn, David Lotinga on cor Anglais, and Paul Jones with his rasping contrabassoon. Many others also had a chance to shine, including oboist Kate Osbourne and clarinettist Richard de la Rue. Particularly lovely was the sweet collaboration between Amye Farrell's 'cellos and Susan Sherratt's splendid concert harp.
It had wisely been decided that there would be no interval, and the Symphony would be performed in its entirety with nothing to break up the natural succession of the five movements.
It had wisely been decided that there would be no interval, and the Symphony would be performed in its entirety with nothing to break up the natural succession of the five movements.
The resulting cascade of sensual sound was not only a marathon performance for the musicians (who all acquitted themselve with distinction) but also a totally immersive experience for the audience.
Mahler was determined to make this a work that would stir souls and leave a lasting impression. In the hands of Conductor Leo Geyer and Leader Clare Smith the Orchestra achieved that very impressively. The Cathedral vaults resounded with mighty and inspiring sound. Congratulations to all involved in bringing such marvellous music to a wider audience.
The EMG Symphony Orchestra have a policy of keeping their seat prices low. Even front row seats are only £16 (for those who order in time!) The music is always of the very highest calibre, and represents a superb way to spend an entertaining and moving evening.
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| Mahler's Fifth Symphony Conductor: Leo Geyer (photography: Paula Fernley) |
Their next project, which they will start rehearsing with Leo in January, is Carl Orff's 1935 orchestration of the songs from the twelfth century written by students at the Benedict Beuern Monastery in Bavaria. These "Carmina Burana" are subtitled "Cantiones Profanae" and reflect the observations of the students in their secular life in the local towns - and particularly taverns.
The performance will be at Exeter Cathedral on Saturday 13 April 2019, and the EMG Symphony Orchestra will be joined by the Jean-Marie Lorand Ensemble who are based in Rennes (Exeter's twin city in Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany) with whom they have collaborated many times in the past.
Rehearsals will be at St Peter's School in Quarry Lane, Exeter. Do look out for those special 'Open Rehearsals' where members of the public are invited to come and see the orchestra at work, and children in particular can learn more and be inspired. Musician at Grade VI or above in their instrument are also invited to participate in the open rehearsal. In addition, any singers who have experience of performing Carmina Burana are invited to join rehearsals and to swell numbers on the big night. Enquiries are welcomed via the EMG Website.
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| Éloi Marchand |
Exeter Cathedral
Saturday 13 April 7.30pm
CARMINA BURANA
Chef de Choeur: Éloi Marchand
Orchestra Conductor: Leo Geyer
Orchestra Leader: Clare Smith
Carl Orff: "Carmina Burana"
Cantiones Profanæ (Secular Songs)
Tickets: details TBC
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