REVIEW: Lunchtime Concert

It seemed appropriate, prior to the Welsh Harp Festival in Caernarfon next month, that the second All Saints’ lunchtime concert this season, given on Monday, should have featured a harp recital.

The musician behind the magic fingers was Kathryn Rees-Peak, who, with her wide international experience, treated us to dazzling performances enhanced in some items by the wonderful tone of cellist, Rebecca Warner.

In a varied line-up the Penarth pair demonstrated the full harmonic and vibrant range of both instruments, with a deftness which brought pleasure to the ear.

The musical journey began in the romantic era with two tuneful works by Glinka (theme and variations and nocturne) followed by lovely Welsh melodies by John Thomas.

The two teamed up for a sympathetic rendering of Bellini’s Nocturne for harp and cello, leading into a different style with Godefroid’s Etude de Concert in E flat minor with complex timings.

This was a suitable precursor to haunting modern harmonies in three pieces by Italian pianist and composer, Ludovico Einaudi, in which the two musicians complemented each other with astounding empathy.

The musical journey ended in Argentina with some thrilling and difficult pieces from Astor Piazzolla. Kathryn’s feet were flying over all seven pedals on the harp to provide a dynamic conclusion to an extremely entertaining hour.

Mike Peirson

Further information regarding the regular musical events held at All Saints Church can be obtained by visiting the church’s website: allsaintspenarth.org.uk or by contacting Dafydd G Jones, the parish administrator by telephone on 029 2070 3170 or by email on admin@allsaintspenarth.org.uk.

The next lunchtime recital will be in April, exact date to be confirmed.