Exeter Philharmonic Choir

Rossini Petite messe solennelle
Brahms Liebeslieder Waltzes, Op.52

Conductor Howard Ionascu

Exeter Philharmonic Choir’s summer concert combines musical drama and colourful, memorable tunes. Rossini’s Mass is a work of contrast and intensity. Despite its title, it is neither ‘small’ nor ‘solemn’ but reflects his great operatic talent. In Brahms’ love songs, possibly inspired by his devotion to Clara Schumann, the composer blends north German folk tunes with the waltz and ländler rhythms of Austria.
The four soloists, Clare Tunney (soprano), Giulia Laudano (mezzo-soprano), Aaron Godfrey-Mayes (tenor) and Ossian Huskinson (bass-baritone), are all supported by the Josephine Baker Trust. Soloists and choir are accompanied by a trio of musicians who have greatly contributed to Exeter’s musical life: David Davies and Andrew Millington (piano) and Stephen Tanner (harmonium).