The chorus was outstanding and the soloists (selected members of the choir) were, for the most part, up to the task, although there were a couple of them who flatted out on a high note here and there. Nevertheless, they each executed their melismas excellently. The best soloists were tenor Kim Childs, alto Lynette Erwin. No, really, she was—I’m not playing favorites—and baritone Matt Thomas. The real problem was the string section, which at times didn’t seem to possess much in the way of intonation. Nor did they seem to be very familiar with the piece in general. Had they been better, and had Maestro Mark Lawlor been able to trust them with quicker tempi, the soloists would have had no problems at all...
Despite everything it was a very enjoyable performance and everyone had a great time. I especially enjoyed Lawlor’s concentration on the dotted rhythms and Baroque articulation, which gave this piece more personality than I’ve probably ever heard. I also appreciated the tasteful informality of the presentation, which reminded me of those in Handel’s time.
Maestro Lawlor is a dedicated musician and an asset to Stillwater’s musical world. I anticipate some exciting concerts while this town is lucky enough to have him. His wife told us that they’re going to have us over to dinner after the holidays, and I’m looking forward to getting to know them better.
What’s kind of eerie for me is that he looks like he could be related to Frank Salazar (if he were Hispanic and bald, that is); the physical similarities are striking.
