Summer Serenade
Sunday 4th July, 2010
Church of St Michael the Archangel,
Radley Road,
Halam,
Notts NG22 8AQ.
7.30 p.m.
With Nigel Day, organist
St Michael's Church in Halam was built about the same time as Southwell Minster. It has lovely Norman pillars in the nave and the chancel arch is one of the best examples of a church round Norman arch in Nottinghamshire. The 13th century tower was added later and houses an ancient bell which dates from Plantaganet times, but is rather picturesquely called the 'thousand year bell' by local people. There is a fine example of 14th century glass in one of the chancel windows and other windows are by Morris & Co. It has a 16th century font which stands at the back of the nave aisle.
Halam church is well-cared for and maintained, has a thriving congregation and is cherished by the local community. Recently a new organ was installed - designed by Paul Hale, Rector chori at the Minster and organ advisor to the diocese, and the inaugural concert was given by him in January 2010. The church has been used regularly as a venue for concerts for over 10 years but is well worth a visit in its own right!
Karin Lindley, who organised the concert, wrote the following for The Chad:
Sinfonia Chorale - Halam St Michael's Church: 4 July
An appreciative audience heard a well-thought-out programme on a lovely warm evening: 'A Summer Serenade' comprised part-songs and Lieder from various Romantic composers and was interspersed by organ solos from member of the choir Nigel Day. Choral pieces by English composers such as Parry, Elgar and Rutter were heard alongside composers of German lieder such as Brahms and Schumann.
A lively piece written by conductor Richard Roddis 'Johnnie Groat says' opened the second half and was followed by American composer Aaron Copland's 'Four Motets', - rather fitting for a 4 July Concert - written when he was a student; these were followed by interesting, unusual and well-executed pieces by contemporary composers Eric Whitacre and Einojuhani Rautavaara. The 'a Capella' singing of the choir was accomplished, led by an enthusiastic Richard Roddis who is well-known in the Midlands for his expertise in the repertoire of chamber music. Nigel Day clearly enjoyed playing Halam's newly-installed organ; of particular note was his performance of two movements from Sonata 8 by Joseph Rheinberger. The evening concluded with a moving and atmospheric rendition of 'Danny Boy'.
Halam Church is a lovely venue and has a regular programme of concerts throughout the year. Because of the installation of a new organ in January of this year we hope to have a number of organ recitals in the coming season to celebrate its installation. If you would like details of events please email: karinlindley@hotmail.com for information.