Leeds University Union Music Society’s Christmas Concert Series began last weekend – here’s a taster of what’s on offer for music lovers of Leeds in the run-up to the end of term.

LUUMS had another success of a concert this weekend in the Clothworkers Centenary Concert Hall. The Chamber Choir opened the concert with a series of works varying from Poulenc’s ‘Quatre Motets pour le Temps de Noël’, to a version of African-American spiritual song ‘I’m Gonna Sing ‘Til the Spirit Moves’.  

The high standard of singers in the ensemble was clear from the outset, with their voices blending seamlessly together. The ensemble’s conductors (Zachary Kleanthous and Benjamin Palmer) can only be praised for their professional leadership of the choir – clearly their work this semester has paid off.

After the interval, the Brass Band took to the stage. Led by Lewis Hammond, they opened with a raucous rendition of Weather Report’s ‘Birdland’. Their following set was as varied and fun as ever, with the audience particularly enjoying John Williams’ ‘Duel of the Fates’ featured in Episode 1: The Phantom Menace from the Star Wars series. Their set concluded with a version of ‘Brooklyn’ by the Young Blood Brass Band, and audience members left the hall with the tune stuck in their heads.

This ensemble is open to any brass player at the University with any level of experience. However, it is clear that the stellar leadership of the management team and conductor allowed for the ensemble to sound truly professional and polished.

LUUMS’ Christmas Concert Series continues as follows:

• Symphonic Choir & Concert Band – 2nd December, 3pm
• Composers’ Ensemble – 5th December, 7:30pm
• Symphony Orchestra – 9th December, 3pm
• LUUMS Carol Concert – 15th December, 5pm

Jemima Simm

(Image courtesy of LUUMS)