Toad Lane Concerts: Isabel Williamson cello & Jonathan Ellis piano

Jonathan Ellis and Isabel Williamson

This highly qualified and experienced duo, both first class honours and postgraduates of the Royal Northern College of Music and Manchester University, gave an uplifting and magical recital on Wednesday 6 September.

Freelance cellist, Isabel Williamson works additionally as a teacher, session musician, creative artist and collaborator. She is also part of the indie band ‘Bonfire Tide’ and toured internationally with the folk-rock band ‘The Wishing Well’.

She was partnered today by pianist Jonathan Ellis who works extensively around the north west as a soloist, accompanist, repetiteur and chamber musician.

The Sonata in A major by Franck is well-known as a violin sonata but also works well with cello. The first three movements were admirably performed, full of powerful drama and passion. Isabel’s tone was skilfully supported by Jonathan’s suitably orchestral accompaniment. Their ensemble playing was second to none, rapport in the celebrated fourth movement sheer delight.

Vocalise by Rachmaninov and Bruch’s moving evocation, Kol Nidrei, transported the audience with lyricism and emotional intensity.

This superb duo rectal was rounded off with a richly deserved encore, The Swan by Saint-Saens. Yet again at St Mary in the Baum, here was a recital worthy of any concert stage.

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. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.

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

Dr Joe Dawson