Andy Tyler reviews The Guildhall Singers Concert for Advent: Performance was enjoyable and atmospheric on a small scale

Reviewer Andy Tyler shares his thoughts on a recent concert at a Lynn church…

There’s been a great opportunity to enjoy music of all kinds this Advent period and The Guildhall Singers’ Concert for Advent which was recently held at All Saints Church, Hillington Square in Lynn, added to the variety, performing choral music on a small, but no less enjoyable and atmospheric, scale.

The Guildhall Singers, formed in 2019, by Helen Herbert as a group of experienced local singers, enjoys a wide repertoire and has performed frequently in local venues.

Initially, the choir thrived under the direction of Charlotte Sinassi-Hill but is now directed by singer, lecturer and teacher, Andres Hernandez-Salazar, who conducted with sensitivity and grace at the concert.

During the first half of the concert, the works performed were of a serious nature, being by Hildegard Von Bingen, the 12th Century abbess, Ola Gjeilo, a contemporary Norwegian composer, Edvard Grieg, (1843-1907), and Anton Bruckner (1824-1896), it being 200 years since Bruckner’s birth.

The concert’s second half was of a lighter nature, including works by Flecha, Michael Praetorius, Max Reger and carol arrangements by John Rutter and Peter Gritton.

The audience enjoyed traditional mulled wine in the interval and were wished a Merry Christmas musically by the choir at the end.

Thanks to Father Adrian for bringing the singers to All Saints, the choir and director Andres, for thoughtful and beautifully sung performances, and all involved.

If you are an experienced singer and would like to become involved with the Guildhall Singers email: guildhallsingers@gmail.com