Arguably no less dramatic than Handel’s Messiah which was showcased last year, Elijah has remained a firm favourite in the choral repertoire, depicting the story of the great heroic prophet with his energetic, zealous, stern, wrathful and gloomy characters, antagonising the rabble of fickle and wayward Israelites, often conveyed by powerful and restless choruses, juxtaposed by meditative narrative Bachian chorales. It was compelling to sense the tension between different personages and exclaim on the power and glory of God through Elijah’s triumph and retreat through such impeccable text-painting music on the heart-affecting lyrics, compiling and adapting the Scriptural words. The interpretation by the performers was unreservedly convincing.

One of the spotlights certainly fell on our Quiristers portraying The Angels psalming the sublime “Lift thine eyes”, a cappella, at the West Door of the Cathedral. It was remote, yet clear, comforting of the weary prophet and equally edifying the hearts of listeners! A pristine solo by Timothy C was featured in a recitative in Part 1.

The dramatic climax is pinnacled in the chorus “Behold, God the Lord passed by” after a series of powers of nature giving way to the deafening still small voice of God. Subsequently, the choir sang the vigorous ascension by which Elijah was taken up to Heaven in “a fiery chariot”, leaving the audience in awe.

The final chorus was triumphantly rounded off by a superb “Amen”, transforming the initial curse before the Overture into praises, blessings and hope, reminding us of Elijah being a forerunner of the Messiah when Advent was approaching.

Bosco Lam
Q Parent

Photos credit: Jim Pascoe 
https://jimpascoephotography