Concert review Foden's at Keele University 1st November

Posted by Mark Wilkinson on 9 November 2017

Tags: concerts, reviews

Foden's at Keele University 1st November

Conductor Michael Fowles

The modern surroundings of Keele University Chapel was the chosen venue for a unique collaboration between the University’s Science Department and Fodens Band.

The scene was set with the exciting ‘Enter the Galaxies’ from the pen of Paul Lovatt-Cooper, before moving into the evening’s main work - Holst’s ‘Planets Suite’.

With each Planet being introduced informatively by Dr John Taylor, Lecturer in Astrophysics from Keele University (with the aid of photographs taken by the Hubble Telescope) the Band was able to display its excellent style and versatility during the high demands of Stephen Roberts arrangement of this fantastic work.

The programme required stamina for each of the Planets (seven in total) and the band did not disappoint, meeting the musical demands ably. A Celeste, two Harps and Choir complimented the Bands performance throughout the evening

The in depth explanations given by Dr.Taylor gave the band a well-earned rest in between each of the Planets performances. The challenge of this demanding programme was met excellently and for this writer the playing of Venus was the highlight of the evening with the wide range of descriptive colours and control on display.

The evening concluded with the Finale from Philip Sparke's Music of the Spheres making for a thoroughly enjoyable and informative November evening.

Dave Lea