On a gloriously hot summer’s evening, members of the Bristol Classical Guitar Society gathered with friends, family, and supporters for our annual Members’ Summer Concert. The warmth outside was matched by the warmth inside the hall – a fantastic audience turnout and an evening full of beautiful, varied performances.
The programme reflected the depth and diversity of our society’s talent:
- Cari and Thorben performed 5 short South American pieces arranged by Yvon Rivoall, and Carolan’s Concert by Turlough Carolan (Arr. Gerald Garcia).
- Tim and Tony L gave a lively set: Scherzo Sobre la Sonrise de un Niño (Arr. Barbosa/Rojas), Fantasia for 2 Lutes (Thomas Robinson), and Tango No.2/Suite España (Albeniz).
- Katherine D played Canarios by Gaspar Sanz
- Paul H brought us Ernest Shand’s Il Pensieroso.
- Andy W closed the first half with Philippe Drogoz’s Prélude à la Mise à Mort – a hugely entertaining and theatrical percussion piece that, remarkably, calls for the use of 12 knitting needles!
- Lewis T played Antonio Lauro’s El Niño
- Vince and Tony M delivered Milan Tesar’s Suita Karrusel.
- Steve W presented Recitativo from Mompou’s Suite Compostelana.
- Tony E played his own evocative composition, Bu Farw Cathod.
- The BCGS Ensemble, under the direction of Francisco, delighted the audience with Valenciana (Arr. Helen James) and Ostinato from St Paul’s Suite by Gustav Holst (arr. Alan Rinehart).
Here are some photos from the night:
Here’s the programme and quiz from the night:
Each performance brought its own character, from Renaissance lute duets to contemporary compositions, from vibrant ensemble playing to intimate solo pieces. The range of styles – classical, romantic, folk-inspired, and modern – showcased just how much richness there is within the guitar repertoire.
A special thank you goes to Francisco for directing the ensemble with such energy and skill, and to all our members who contributed their music to the evening. The concert was not only a celebration of classical guitar but also of community – proof again of how much joy shared music-making can bring.
We wish everyone a wonderful summer, and we look forward to seeing you all again at our autumn meetings and events.
NOTE: Our next meeting will be September.