Zamar Gospel Choir

On the 29th May, Zamar gospel choir presented what was without a doubt this year’s most swinging concert. Unsurprisingly, the concert hall was packed with an eager and enthusiastic crowd. Although the choir looked a bit nervous at the start, possibly as a result of the overwhelming enthusiasm of the audience, the sound was strong and convincing from the very first note.

A fifty-strong force to reckon with, Zamar is a completely student run ensemble within the university’s music department, this year directed by third year music student Becca Lattimer.

The choir performed in a number of different arrangements. Depending on the music performed, a semi chorus, quartet or soloists were used. By doing this, Zamar managed to create great variety within the program and made sure that the concert stayed entertaining till the end. However, the soloists were a bit shaky at times and often struggled, even with help from a microphone, not to be drowned by the sound of the choir.

Although this variation was very effective, the main strength of Zamar lies in its collective. Together they produced an inspiring sound. Furthermore, their enthusiasm for the music and its message was infectious.

The choir was accompanied by a fine rhythm section: double base (Vanessa McWilliam), a drummer (Karl Kraemer), a slightly timid brass section and an amazing pianist (Gavin Whitworth), who in no time managed to capture the admiration off the audience. Highlights on the program were the beautiful ‘down to the river’, which is one of my all time favourite gospel songs, and a comic, close harmony, all male quartet.

After a rousing encore, the audience was left with a huge smiles on their faces and an urge to sing and dance their way home.

Zamar Gospel Choir will next be performing at Woodstock.

Add Comment

You must log in to submit a comment.