Darwin Ensemble

From The Lichfield Mercury, Thursday 12 February 2009:

In these recessionary times, innovation and risk taking are getting harder to find. So let us shout a hurray for anyone brave enough to challenge these assumptions. A second hurray goes to those who invest in the live arts, for it is these that can lift the depressed soul. A third goes to orchestral musicians willing to learn how to use the notoriously difficult acoustic of Lichfield Cathedral to their advantage. So three cheers go to the newly formed Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra with their inaugural concert last Saturday (31st January).

The programme was pitched to attract a wide audience with the well trodden sequence of overture/concerto/symphony. Philip Scriven's confident beat set a busy pace for the overture to Mozart's Marriage of Figaro. The strings quickly painted the picture of a busy Figaro attending to the needs of his future wife, whilst rushing round after his master. The distinguished Simon Blendis despatched Mozart's sublime third violin concerto with a sweetness of tone and confidence which delighted the packed cathedral.

The leader (and founder), Alex Laing began the second half by thanking the audience for their support and previewing future events. The rendition of Beethoven's first symphony was joyous. The strings found a pianissimo to rival many more established groups. The woodwind and brass were flawless in their interpretations. If this group can play often enough to master the venue, we are in for a series of treats. Three cheers for all involved!