Mullingar Choral Society Spring Concert with soloist Claudia Boyle
Those fortunate enough to have attended the Mullingar Choral Society concert on Sunday May 7 in St Paul’s Church were full of praise for what they had witnessed.
Guests were quick to acknowledge the wonderful performance of soloist Claudia Boyle and many suggested that they never heard the choir sing better.
The sustained applause which rang out on a number of occasions throughout the evening was evidence that the audience were thoroughly enjoying themselves.
Claudia Boyle’s performance was captivating. Not alone has she an exceptional voice but her personality, wit and charm had the audience spellbound. Her solo arias were well chosen and offered a diverse selection, ranging from Mozart to Gershwin.
The main piece of work was the Misa Criolla by Ariel Ramirez, for which Claudia sang the solo pieces. She was well supported by the choir, who were performing that particular work for the first time.
Ariel Ramirez composed the Misa Criolla in 1964 and his main influences were the rhythms and folk traditions of Argentina.
Mullingar Choral Society were delighted to have Ana Laura Cachaza, Ambassador of the Argentine Republic, and her husband as their special guests and they got a warm reception from all in attendance.
Una Byrne, recently appointed chairperson of the Longford Westmeath Argentina Society, was also present, together with some of the association members.
The performance by the choir on the night was described as one of their best, if not their best. Under the direction of Fintan Farrelly, the choir had worked hard since the start of the year, taking on many new pieces and producing a diverse selection for this particular concert.
From Locus Iste by Bruckner, If ye Love me by Tallis and Cantar by Althouse, there was a wonderful variety of pieces to keep the audience engaged.
One of the highlights of the evening was the performance of the traditional Irish piece ‘Dulaman’, made famous by Clannad originally and subsequently by Anuna.
The singing was supported by a well chosen musical ensemble. The piano accompanist was Vincent Lynch, who had performed the previous evening with the Ulster Orchestra. Vincent is a former student of the Schola Cantorum in St Finian’s College. He was supported by local musicians, Danny Murray and Aidan Magee on percussion, Martin Murray on guitar, Matt Rafter on Cello and Colin Hogg on the bodhrán.
For many, the concert will be remembered for the exceptionally high standards of performance from both the soloist and choir.
The next Mullingar Choral Society performance will be at the Fleadh Cheoil, when they will sing a selection of well chosen Irish pieces on the Gig Rig on Thursday August 10. It will be an opportunity for the choir to showcase their undoubted talent to a wider, visiting audience and they are looking forward to the challenge.