Jeffrey Skidmore reviews
Penelope Thwaites: From Five Continents
Carolyn Sampson (soprano), James Gilchrist (tenor), et al; Ex Cathedra/Jeffrey Skidmore (SOMM)
Celestial Bird: Works by R Panufnik
Ex Cathedra; Milapfest/Jeffrey Skidmore (Signum Records)
JS Bach: St Matthew Passion
The St Matthew Passion was part of Good Friday Vespers, the biblical narrative and the chorales familiar to the congregation, and in their native language. Jeffrey Skidmore’s Ex Cathedra forces, in this recording released to celebrate the group’s 40th anniversary, reflect Bach’s own practice in many respects – period instruments, soloists picked from the choir, and a fine sense of performance style.