Saturday 18 December 2004 Sharpe's Pottery Visitor Centre, Swadlincote. A Christmas Concert in the Kiln. "A notable performance - On Saturday last, I had the great privilege of being in the audience at a concert given by the fabulous Derwent Singers, which was staged in South Derbyshire's Premier concert venue, Sharpe's Kiln. I had completed some research on the choir, as their reputation preceded them, and anticipated something very special, however that was an understatement. I knew the audience and I were in for a treat, when they opened with the haunting, The Truth From Above, off kiln, before entering this wonderful venue, where the acoustics set everyone on the edge of their seats with anticipation. The choir directed and conducted by Richard Roddis, commenced their programme with a wealth of well known pieces and some seldom heard, mixed in with seasonal carols and readings. For me the modern collection, of five carols, Carolling Nowell, written and arranged by Richard, was super and had the audience in awe at the accomplishment of the choir. We were also to be amazed by Richard's own interpretation of Miss Hooligan's Christmas Cake and this showed his humorous side and ability to include the audience. For those people who missed this performance, I would say, watch out for the next concert the Derwent Singers give at the Kiln, and get behind me at the ticket desk."
From a letter to The Burton Mail

Friday 19 March 2004 Derby Cathedral. Gala Concert featuring Emma Kirkby - Vivaldi: Gloria; Monteverdi: Beatus Vir; Bach: Cantata 51. "This had a real sense of occasion. It was the grand finale to conductor Christopher Monks' three years with the Derwents and the participation of soprano Emma Kirkby makes any concert special. The Derwents are making a rich, powerful sound these days. Fresh, lively accounts of Vivaldi's Gloria and two Monteverdi psalm-settings were a delight, though occassionally the tenors and/or basses were a bit too hearty, threatening to overbalance the other voices. Emma Kirkby was her usual enchanting self, partnered by Ian Aitkenhead's efficient but inexpressive counter-tenor, the warmer, more flexible phrasing of mezzo Elizabeth Edwards and, in Bach's Cantata 51, Robert Farley's sparkling trumpet-playing. Jane Downer was the sensitive oboist in Vivaldi's Gloria; violinists Diane Terry and Kelly McKusker made splendidly feisty contributions to Monteverdi's Beatus Vir.
Derby Evening Telegraph

For more information on the Derwent Singers please email info@derwentsingers.org.uk