Music at King’s Lynn Town Hall in memory of Joan Marchbank

Two very special concerts took place at Lynn’s historic Town Hall recently, performed by distinguished musicians including Raphael Wallfisch, the internationally celebrated cellist, Allan Schiller, pianist, The Bridge String Quartet and Marianne Schofield playing double bass.

The concerts, organised by local professional conductor Peter Marchbank, were In Memoriam of his late wife, Joan, a teacher of many years, and musician who played cello in chamber and orchestral concerts in Lynn and Ely.

She also spent time engaging in charitable work, and her many friends benefited from her cheerfulness and generosity. Many of these friends travelled from all over the country to attend the events.

Joan passed in the Peddar’s Way Ward at The QEH in Lynn, which provides dignity and compassionate care to the dying patients and their families. It is hoped proceeds from the concerts will enable Joan’s family to make a generous donation to the Peddar’s Way Unit Fund.

The first Memorial Concert consisted of Brahm’s Cello Sonata No.1 in E minor, Op.38, J.S.Bach’s third unaccompanied Cello Suite in C major and Beethoven’s Cello Sonata in A major, Op.69.

Allan Schiller gave a deeply felt, exemplary performance of the sonatas. An encore by Robert Schumann rounded off the evening’s programme.

In the second recital, The Bridge String Quartet, together with Allan, Raphael and Marianne Schofield, gave a sparkling performance of Schubert’s popular Trout Quintet, and after the interval, his final masterpiece, the String Quintet in C major, was performed convincingly, conveying the varied moods and emotions of the piece naturally.
The two concerts were a fine, fitting tribute to Joan, thanks to all involved.

Andy Tyler