Elation to Creation

To learn a complete work from memory is no mean feat for any choir but to learn all the choruses in the huge work that is Haydn’s Creation is a noteworthy achievement for Yorkshire Philharmonic Choir. The outcome was an electrifying performance from start to finish where, under the baton of Dr Andrew Padmore, the choir exuded confidence and immediately connected with the audience, bringing the music to life with clarity of diction and dramatic dynamics to retell the biblical story through Haydn’s effective use of word painting in his music.

The three soloists, Sarah Power (soprano) Austin Gunn (tenor) and Jamie W. Hall (baritone) were indeed the dream team who delighted all with outstanding performances, delivering the story of The Creation with such clarity and attention to detail in their interpretation that held everyone spellbound.

To see the full Amici orchestra together again after the enforced two year gap during the pandemic was quite emotional. This incredible team of musicians have supported YPC for many years and their performance of Haydn’s Creation was truly remarkable under the direction of Musical Director Andrew Padmore. Along with Thomas Moore’s excellent continuo on chamber organ, it was indeed a reminder what an orchestra of this calibre can bring to the performance of a work of this significance and how much they have been missed.

It was a delight to see the cathedral packed to capacity with an appreciative audience who clearly enjoyed every moment of this spectacular performance. The three ‘curtain calls’ were indicative of the outstanding performance of everyone involved and a reflection of the warmth and love within the stunning setting of Wakefield Cathedral.