Worcestershire | Archive | 2003 | November | 07
From the archive, first published Friday 7th Nov 2003.
AN appreciative audience at St Edmund's Hall, Malvern College, was treated to an appearance by Nicholas Clapton, who was born in Malvern but has not previously given a public recital in the town.
We heard songs by Henry Purcell, Schubert, Vaughan Williams and Roger Quilter. The evening finished with arrangements of folk songs by Benjamin Britten.
The counter-tenor is still a somewhat unappreciated voice and it was a rare treat to hear this consummate artist in such good form. The voice was even throughout and breath control, diction and performance were in keeping with one who has appeared throughout the UK and on the continent. Nicholas is a professor at the Royal Academy and teaches in Budapest and coaches at Dartington.
The Purcell songs, which began the evening, were performed with grace and poise and a beautiful tone was evident and careful phrasing.
Schubert is a master of lieder and we heard five songs by the composer. Nacht and Traume was given a heartfelt performance. The sublime An Die Musik followed and then Heidenroslein, the well know Standchen and Der Musensohn. All displayed Nicholas's careful shaping and performance.
After a short interval, songs by Vaughan Williams, Quilter and arrangements by Benjamin Britten brought the evening to a memorable close.
Nicholas was ably accompanied by Joseph Brand, a local professional musician. He tackled the often difficult accompaniments with skill and considerable musicianship - acquired in performances in London's Wigmore Hall and other venues, no doubt.
The evening was sponsored by Tom Clapton, Nicholas' father, and was enhanced by the lovely piano and hall. We look forward to other recitals by this artist.
ALAN PIKE
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