Toad Lane Concerts: Tim Kennedy concert pianist

Tim Kennedy

Tim Kennedy appeared as a concert pianist at this week's Toad Lane concer but he is also well-known as a professional singer, vocal coach and organist. He studied music at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, but has now been based in Manchester as a freelance professional musician for more than fifteen years. He is a staff accompanist at the Royal Northern College of Music and an official accompanist for festivals, regional events and competitions.

This was a judicious selection of ancient and modern piano pieces, all impeccably played. Tim also has an easy way with interesting introductions that engage well with the audience and enhances their listening (we were fascinated to learn that he had hand warmers in his pockets for between pieces).

Firstly, his classical gems were JS Bach’s Sheep may safely graze, arranged by Egon Petri, beautifully poised; Sinding’s Rustle of Spring, skilfully played to bring out the waterfall cascade of the original meaning; the attractive Waltz in C# minor by Chopin, and Grieg’s renowned Morning (Peer Gynt Suite). With Granada (Suite espagnole) and Tango by Albeniz, sounding clear and fresh in their original piano versions on the refurbished heritage 1935 Challen Grand Piano at St Mary in the Baum.

From classics to moody moderns with Mariage d’amour (1979) by Paul de Senneville, Indigo moon (2006), by Elissa Milne and music from the French film Amélie (2001) by Yann Tiersen.

Just before his final item, a masterstroke in audience participation: it was Tim’s mother’s birthday and as he was recording his recital he asked us all to join him in singing for her. So, Happy Birthday dear Janet! This brought the house down.

This eclectic recital was rounded off by Jealousy (Gypsy Tango) (1925) by Gade, well-known in many other guises from violin solo to song.

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