Audience Review: The Trumpet Shall Sound

Since I first saw Manchester Camerata in action at Manchester Cathedral in October, I had a feeling that our paths would cross again very soon, and indeed they did with an absolutely stunning show at the Albert Hall Manchester.

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the Albert Hall, having passed it on a few occasions but never having actually been inside. I need not have worried, the place is absolutely lovely! It’s an old Wesleyan chapel with beautiful stained glass windows which filtered in the last of the day’s light during the performance giving a wonderfully winter and Christmas feel to the whole afternoon.

Having seen the Manchester Camerata before, I knew I would be in for a treat, however I was once again absolutely bowled over by their performance.

Conductor Nicholas Kraemer was amazing, and so enthusiastic. You could really see that he has a genuine passion for his work. I did have to chuckle when he referred to one of the upcoming Vivaldi pieces as the one you may have heard whilst on hold to a call centre!

I was looking forward to hearing Tine Thing Helseth play after seeing clips of her in action on the Camerata website. I have to say though, seeing and hearing her in person is something else. She perfectly complimented the Camerata, and the wistful sound of that trumpet shall remain with me for a long time, especially the gorgeous melancholy Christmas solo that she performed last of all. Tine is incredibly talented, and I hope we’ll be seeing her a lot more in the future.

If I were to sum up the whole experience in three words, then it would be delightful, absolutely delightful.

A perfect antidote to a miserable wet Sunday afternoon in December. I’m already planning my next Camerata trip, and would recommend you do the same, you will not be disappointed!

Martin
lonewolf71@live.co.uk