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Oratorio Was A Credit To All
13 Jan 1974
Barden School, Barden Lane, Burnley
Principals at the Barden concert: W. Jorysz, leader; Peter Walker; Barbara Siddelley; Derek Williamson; Robert Atherton, conductor; and Mr Barry Verran, concert organiser.
From a review by Norman Clark:
The first Municipal concert of 1974 was a performance on Sunday afternoon, the 13th January, of Haydn's Oratorio "The Creation" by the Burnley Municipal Choir and Orchestra. The part of Gabriel (soprano) was sung by Barbara Siddelley, that of Uriel (tenor) by Derek Williamson, and Raphael (bass) by Peter Walker. The story is narrated in song, with the orchestra contributing in full measure, and conversations between voice and instrument bringing the action to life. I particularly enjoyed the duets as the different species were created.
Barbara Siddelley has improved in voice and confidence since her last visit and Derek Williamson gave a pleasing interpretation. Peter Walker's superb interpretation and nuances of meaning were added to a rich sonority of tone. This is a popular oratorio and deserves to be staged. The performance was a credit to all who took part. Kenneth Healey accompanied on the piano and the orchestra was led by Wade Jorysz, and the conductor was Robert Atherton.
