Toad Lane Concert: The Telemann Baroque Ensemble

Telemann Baroque Ensemble rehearsing

To celebrate the Vernal Equinox, the coming of Spring, what better way than with live Baroque music complete with harpsichord, superbly played in a sublime acoustic?

The Telemann Baroque Ensemble come to the weekly Toad Lane Concerts at St Mary’s in the Baum once a quarter. Their line-ups may vary, drawn from the cream of freelance players in the NW, but the high quality of their playing is constant.

Wednesday's (22 March) combination consisted of Peter Collier on harpsichord and Roger Bisby on cello, who formed the ‘basso continuo’ throughout, ensuring that authentic Baroque sound. They were joined by violinists Elaine da Costa and Sarah Snape and viola players John Goodstadt and Penelope Bisby to give Telemann’s Sonata in g minor. A beautiful, rounded tone filled the space most agreeably.

Flautist Alastair Roberts joined Sarah in Quantz’s Trio 30 in d minor, with joyous clarity and contrast underpinned by the continuo.

Then John Goodstadt took the solo part in Telemann’s Viola Concerto in G major of 1715, the first such work for the often-overlooked viola. It is not until Walton’s viola concerto 1929 and Hindemith’s viola concerto 1935 that it was allowed out on its own again. John’s performance showed what everyone had been missing.

Quantz’s Flute Concerto in G major featuring Alastair Roberts accompanied by the whole troupe was a dazzling display of instrumental playing all round. The excellent ensemble playing made it both intimate and yet powerful. The whole concert was memorable.

The audience was augmented by music students from Heywood’s Holy Family RC & CE College who clearly enjoyed the experience of live performance. They also gleaned information from the players, especially Peter and his harpsichord, which will prove invaluable.

The next TBE experience will be on 7 June when oboe and bassoon are promised in the line-up.

To see details of forthcoming Toad Lane Concerts, click here.

Dr Joe Dawson