Haydn Concerts

Last week was concert week, our pre-Easter program. The centrepiece was Haydn's Seven Last Words of our Saviour on the Cross. It's sung in German (which I love) so of course Henny understood the lyrics while I was practicing: blood, sin, pain, sacrifice, anger, revenge. Another light-hearted evening then. Actually, I grew to like the piece very much and my lovely, devoted friends who schlepped to Montpellier for the concert really enjoyed it. Our conductor Vincent Recolin is so inspiring.

On Palm Sunday we sang the Haydn again in Avignon, with an excellent string quintet, different soloists and with Vincent's children's choir. A friend recorded it. I always listen in fear and trepidation of utter disillusionment, but I was pleasantly surprised. We sounded good, and I believe we're getting better. It's a lot of hard work, but it's great to be singing again. Next stop: Brahms German Requiem.

Collégiale St. Agricol, Avignon, 24 March 2013