Conductor Stephen Layton took a theatrical approach, with the Northern Sinfonia in a supporting role and the four soloists vocally projected as though in an opera. However, Bach's complex polyphony is downgraded if choir, orchestra, soloists and continuo players are not an equal ensemble with each line crucial and audible.

Some lines of polyphony were certainly not audible, particularly in the Credo, and this performance did not work, even on its own grand terms.

A few moments of unclear conducting threatened the stability of the Gloria, although the choir's trademark booming timbre was at its most solidly awe-inspiring in the mighty double chorus of the
Sanctus.

Elsewhere, there were awkward accents and less than sprightly quick passages.

The four soloists, though individually fine, were unmatched, with baritone Roderick Williams and tenor Andrew Kennedy outweighing counter-tenor Robin Blaze and soprano Elin Manahan Thomas.


Huddersfield Town Hall