The Magnard Ensemble‘s programme is made up of music by four twentieth-century British composers, book-ended by two works by Stephen Dodgson (1924-2013). The combination of solo voice and wind instruments is a challenging one, but the rarely-heard works by Ruth Gipps and Vaughan Williams demonstrate that such a challenge can produce naturally distinctive music that enhances the chosen texts. Malcolm Arnold’s early Three Shanties are relatively well-known, inhabiting that attractive vein of optimism that characterises much of his work, but it is Dodgson’s music that will command the most interest for many listeners. His imposing Sonata for wind quintet opens proceedings in stately fashion, and the concert ends with an ‘entertainment’ (Dodgson’s word) for four solo voices and wind quintet – Cadilly – uniquely-scored music, humorous and enlivening by turns.

Dodgson | Sonata for wind quintet

Ruth Gipps | The Lady of the Lambs for soprano and wind quintet Op.79

Vaughan Williams | Ten Blake Songs for soprano and oboe

Arnold | Three Shanties for wind quintet Op.4

Dodgson | Cadilly

Suzie Clements • flute

Mana Shibata • oboe

William White • clarinet

Jonathan Farey • French horn

Catriona McDermid • bassoon

Natasha Page • soprano

Rebekah Jones • mezzo soprano

Gareth Brynmor John • baritone

Jonathan Brown • bass

James Day • conductor