When the world IS due to end, surely a proper precursor would be a performance of Verdi’s Requiem!

As a realist with optimistic leanings I fully expect to see this review of Sunday’s Benevolent Fund Concert in print; it would be a grave injustice to the BSO, BSC and the fabulous quartet of soloists under David Hill’s direction were that not to be so.

And it is gratifying to know that the funds raised here will benefit musicians in times of difficulty.

Hill naturally appreciates Verdi’s operatic originality and, building upon the work of Chorus Director Gavin Carr, the BSC’s passion for whispering pianissimo’s, thrilling triple fortes and every gradation in between were always on tap.

And nothing less, of course, from the BSO whose immaculate precision and penetrating power (I was watching the bass drum shift when hit by Matt King!) did more than just support the singing; the antiphonal trumpets in the Dies Irae were spectacular.

Anyone who heard soprano Ailish Tynan recently would expect something special; no one could be disappointed here, an extraordinary performance hitting that top C in the Libera me so sweetly!

The solos and blend of voices from the quartet was impeccable with a tremendous range from mezzo-soprano Patricia Orr.

Tenor Paul Charles Clark and bass Jimmy Holliday also proved inspired performers that helped to make this an awesome account.

Mike Marsh