Serendipity. I like that word. That chance happening of something surprising and pleasant. The afternoon Prague concert at St Nicholas Church matched the definition to perfection.
A leisurely walk across the iconic Charles Bridge. Savouring the delightful ambience of this vibrant city, you soon enter the Old Town Square.
Time seems insignificant, even on the face of the impressive Astronomical Clock. As I approach the imposing St Nicholas Church I hear a distinctive musical refrain.
It’s choral music played on a CD, I thought to myself. I get closer and enter the magnificent church.
I discover, to my amazement, that the choral singing is ‘live.’
A small, mixed choir is having a last minute practice. We’re told that there will be a formal Concert in an hour.
As a bonus, the admission is free. Serendipity.
Prague Concert at St Nicholas Church
The concert is performed by Nottingham Trent University Chamber Choir which embarks on an annual European tour.
For the next hour and a half we listen to a feast of music.
St. Nicholas church serves as both a church and as a magnificent venue for the Prague music concerts.
It’s easy to understand why.
The well assembled and balanced choir took full advantage of the astounding acoustics.
Deserving of special mention is the soprano section. It provides ample goose bump moments. Most notably during Elgar’s majestic ‘Ave Verum Corpus’ and John Rutter’s beguiling ‘[easyazon_link asin=”B004WMV10U” locale=”UK” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”denanddismalv-21″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”] A Gaelic Blessing[/easyazon_link].’
Musical Director, Matthew Hopkins, opts for an eclectic musical programme. With accompanist Jo Nichols, the choir sing classical choral work interspersed with contemporary popular songs.
Notably Adele’s monster hit ‘[easyazon_link asin=”B001MXYPRS” locale=”UK” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”denanddismalv-21″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Make You Feel My Love[/easyazon_link],’ written by Bob Dylan.
Another crowd pleaser is ‘[easyazon_link asin=”B001KU4LF4″ locale=”UK” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”denanddismalv-21″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Fields Of Gold [/easyazon_link]’ by Gordon Sumner. Better known, of course, as ‘Sting.’
The poignancy of the piece is accentuated when the lady sitting next to me said that she wants this song played at her funeral. Gulp!
Then a mellow euphonium solo, followed by a fine tenor solo from musical director Mathew Hopkins. An emotional version of ‘If I Loved You’ from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘[easyazon_link asin=”B0001K2KWA” locale=”UK” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”denanddismalv-21″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Carousel [/easyazon_link].’
Overall, a well constructed concert programme. Well performed by a capable choir. Wholly commended by the appreciative audience.
Not to mention another classical concert at 7pm later that evening.
Another Prague concert at St Nicholas Church that will enthrall audiences day in, day out.
Then, after the concert, the cafe opposite served up a portion of the most wonderful apple strudel. With ice cream, of course.
All things considered, serendipity at its best.
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