Review: Leeds Philharmonic Choir***

Durufl's Requiem is a work of gentle consolation and the Leeds Philharmonic choir's fluent performance deserved better than a hall that was barely half full.

The French organist-composer may be less familiar than other requiem professionals, but his restrained blend of Gregorian chant with 20th century harmony makes this a piece of rare refinement.

Conductor David Hill moulded its nine movements into a satisfying whole, drawing sweet singing from sopranos and altos and rich support from the tenors and basses who tended to roar only in the louder moments.

There was impressive work, too, from the Manchester Camerata, soloists Pamela Helen Stephen and Gareth John, and organist Simon Lindley who shaped the part with typical grace.

Dr Lindley had been the soloist in a sprightly account of Poulenc's Organ Concerto though even his best endeavours could not conceal some sour notes from an organ that sounds in need of another sort of doctor.

The programme included Ravel's Le Tombeau de Couperin, neatly presented, and Faur's Pavane, in the unconvincing vocal version. Motets by Durufl or Poulenc in place of the latter wouldn't have filled the hall but they would have been more pleasing.