Andrew Downes

(Hagley, Worcetershire)

This is a superb, deeply felt account which brings back to life the whole immensely varied experience of the commission and putting on of The Ballad of St Kenelm. Cynthia Downes proved to be a marvellous combined conductor and director of the piece, and Paula Downes gave a deeply moving, almost spiritual account of the soprano solo part, with her wonderful voice! Haydn Thomas proved to be a remarkably dramatic and beautifully toned narrator. Anna Downes brought together a tremendously able and beautifully balanced ensemble, and her violin solos were played with her usual gorgeous tone and tremendous musicality.