Classical review: Ricercar Consort 01, Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh

By KEN WALTON
Published on 21/08/2012 14:05

A BRACE of countertenors; a pair of recorders: there was something about the number two that sewed a distinctive thread through yesterday’s early evening focus on Henry Purcell by the small Belgian ensemble Ricercar.

Ricercar Consort 01

Greyfriars Kirk

Star rating: * * * *

They were supported by a standard trio of continuo instruments, of course. But by and large the emphasis was on the playful jousting of the two singers (Robin Blaze and Carlos Mena), on the gently duetting recorders (uncredited in the programme), or on both pairs in combination, as this gently-mixed cocktail of consort songs and instrumental numbers unfolded.

It was all Purcell to begin with. Blaze and Mena sang duos as diverse as the simply set Sweetness of Nature and the exultant Hark how the Songsters of the Grove.

The easeful, intertwining textures of Here let my Life featured Mena alone, as did the lustrous Strike the Viol, with its lilting off-beat chords on the recorders.

The opening instrumental, Symphony and sighing Chaconne in G minor cleared the air like a soft breeze.

The most significant work ended the recital, An Ode on the Death of Henry Purcell by the older John Blow. Neatly crafted, its subtle dramatic proportions did its short-lived dedicatee proud.