All Saints Church, Borehamwood 14th March 2026 – 7:30pm.
The Elstree Mozart Players (EMP), conducted by Derek Holland. Guest conductor – Meg Storer. The Muswell Hill Chorus, Chorus master – Louise Sherlock. Soprano – Elizabeth Venner, Mezzo Soprano – Janice Watson, Tenor – Laurie Marks, Bass – Stuart Jenkins.
This long-anticipated Scratch Choral Concert began with a purely orchestral first half. EMP were delighted to invite Meg Storer to open proceedings by conducting Mozart’s brilliant Overture to The Magic Flute. She gave a wonderful rendition and received rapturous applause.
Next, Derek performed Schubert’s dramatic and romantic Unfinished Symphony, No.8 in B minor. The mysterious and brooding opening, he judged perfectly, and the tempo remained Allegro Moderato throughout. The second movement kept moving too; an Andante con moto that never slowed. Before the last note had finished, they got resounding applause from the audience.
Derek finished this half with some light classical music, On a Spring Note by Sidney Torch, who was also founder of the long running radio programme – Friday Night is Music Night. Derek and EMP never miss an opportunity to play these wonderfully orchestrated light classical works, and as always, the audience showed just how greatly they appreciate the music.
In the second half, there was just one work: – Mozart’s Requiem, nearly 50 minutes of music for Choir, soloists and orchestra. Among the soloists, was Internationally acclaimed opera singer Janice Watson, who continues her happy association with Derek and EMP. Also, Elizabeth Venner, Laurie Marks and Stuart Jenkins continue to show their mettle and shine for EMP on a regular basis.
Now although this was a scratch choral concert, which means anyone of any standard can turn up and sing, we had the superb services of the Muswell Hill Chorus. As a seasoned and well-trained group, they strengthened the choral lines and supported the enthusiastic, complete novices to good effect.
The performance was magnificent and well received at the end, all performers given hearty applause, especially our esteemed soloists. What a resounding vote of thanks to all involved!
Graham Wilson (Freelance Reviewer for EMP)
