Last updated 05:36, Friday, 25 July 2008

Festival Finale – London Adventist ChoraleCongratulations to the artistic director of the Carlisle International Summer Festival, Jeremy Suter, for such a wonderful choice for the final concert of this year’s festival.

For me, much more than a concert, it was an act of worship, and truly beautiful. Directed by Ken Burton, the London Adventist Chorale presented an evening of gospel music utterly spellbinding in its professionalism and musicality.

The music was captivating, perfectly controlled, so rich and juicy you could almost taste the gorgeous, warm harmonies, masterfully sculpted and massaged by Burton’s fingers. Moments of long, sustained, hushed, gentle chords, with almost imperceptible changes in pure blues harmony were so intimate I felt I was intruding. Contrast the exuberant and yet unforced amens and hallelujahs punctuating and resounding in the air space of the cathedral. Magic!

As a pianist I was enthralled by the only two numbers to have piano backing. In this Burton showed skill as a gospel-style accompanist. He was completely supportive of his choir, and himself wrapped up in the music.

SIMON HUGHES