Although I lived in London for the best part of my adult life, I had never visited Westminster Abbey, so when Aage Duenhaupt invited me to one of the Lufthansa Festival concerts of baroque music on 20 May – the only one held at the Abbey – I could not resist.
Besides, there were other inducements, such as the Westminster Abbey choir, James O’Donnell, organist and Master of the Choristers of Westminster Abbey and internationally recognised conductor and recitalist, and last but not least, St James’s Baroque. The latter is one of the UK’s leading period-instrument ensembles and has been the resident orchestra of the Lufthansa Festival of Baroque Music since its inception.
The concert at the Abbey featured works by Henry Purcell, the Abbey organist in his time, and George Frideric Handel.
Listening to the Westminster Abbey choir live for the first time was so inspiring, not only because of their excellent singing but also because of the whole atmosphere of listening to great baroque music performed by an excellent ensemble in such a splendid and historical Gothic venue.
The evening was further complemented by a reception at the splendid residence of the German Ambassador to the UK Georg Boomgaarden and Mrs Boomgaarden in Belgravia.
Both the Ambassador and Lufthansa chairman Wolfgang Mayrhuber expressed their optimism that the festival, like the airline, would develop and improve for many more years to come.
This was the 25th Anniversary of the festival. “In spite of the economical turbulent times in which we find ourselves, Lufthansa is both proud and honoured to continue its long-term commitment to such a prestigious event.
“Britain’s only festival of baroque music has consistently reflected the quality and innovation, which characterises our airline. Furthermore, we are particularly delighted that for the seventh year running we are presenting the festival in association with our industry partner, Rolls-Royce plc, a global leader in the aerospace, marine and energy sectors”, said Karsten Benz, chairman of the festival.
The festival has evolved from just three concerts by the St James’s Baroque players during the 1984 Piccadilly Festival to a truly international event featuring the best performers of 17th and 18th century music.
The concerts were held from 14 to 23 May. Except for the concert at the Abbey all other performances were held at St John’s, Smith Square.
Pamela Hansen