Toad Lane Concert: Sam Rodwell classical guitar

Sam Rodwell

Sam Rodwell performed a sublime and stimulating guitar showcase at this week's concert on 3 May.

The idea of a classical acoustic guitar in the enormous building of St Mary in the Baum could suggest a musical David and Goliath scenario. However, this was not the case. The cathedral-like acoustics worked with the intimate instrument rather than against it.

Sam Rodwell graduated first class and completed a Masters with distinction at the Royal Northern College of Music.

He now teaches there whilst also performing across the UK as a soloist, forming duos with other guitars, harp, violin or saxophone, and with ensembles including the Manchester Camerata.

Sam’s virtuoso playing was framed by confident and engaging introductions to the instrument and the music.

A beautiful simple arrangement of Loch Lomond began a musical journey through many styles.

The vivid nineteenth century Fantasia Op. 19 by Legnani contrasted with two ‘fancies’ by Elizabethan lutenist and singer John Dowland, with a useful explanation of the change of tunings needed to replicate the Renaissance lute. Then back to modern times with the attractive number Felicidade by Jobim.

A superb Toccata by JS Bach (including excellent contrapuntal playing) led to two contemporary guitarist-composers.

Firstly, Labyrinth by Stephen Goss: a brilliant realisation of this aleatoric piece from graphic score, as challenging to follow as the original maze of the Greek myth. But the fascinating twists and turns proved intriguing and worthwhile.

Secondly, Benga Beat by Gary Ryan, bursting with African flavour, provided a fitting finale, leaving the audience, which included music students from Heywood’s Holy Family College, enchanted with this impressive guitar showcase.

This was concert number 1,035 since taking over from the council in 2001. The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts are every Wednesday at 12.30pm at St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. Entrance fee is £6. No refreshments available. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.

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

Dr Joe Dawson