The world premiere of Creation Canticles, composed by Adrian Lucas, conductor and master of the choristers of Worcester Cathedral, was a major triumph for him in every way.

His visionary choice of words encompass Sharlee Plett's 'nothingness...time into space', then eulogies of Creation, and ultimately St Francis of Assisi and the book of Amos extol the Lord.

On a first hearing, this work made a serious impact. Many passages were memorable; considerable attention had been given to detail in effects of word painting.

High strings of the Westminster Chamber Orchestra set the scene by dropping gaunt intervals to suggest spacious non-existence. WFCS, in superb voice developed antagonisms of thrilling harmonies and soprano soloist Ruth Holton, singing with authority, manifested the dramatic vocal line. Her high tessitura in O, Master of the Beautiful combined with plucked strings and woodwind, conveyed The Enchanter's Spell.

Close harmony strings with a lovely melodic horn introduced'Nirvana, a movement of immense sensitivity. See His peace..., sung with refined cantabile by marvellously pure-toned sopranos, then full chorus and soloist declaiming Vain the dream above pulsating strings, was stunning.

The imposing Canticle of the Sun heard the magnificent chorus at its finest as the climax was approached. Dazzling organ pedalling, alongside the accomplished orchestra, percussion and harp prominent, and soloist, included a long dramatic pause, then repetition and diminuendo of the closing phrase The Lord is his name.

Creation Canticles had been given as successful a premiere as possible, with all participating musicians on top form, and their performance had been warmly appreciated by a large receptive audience.

Requiem by John Rutter was sung also, and received a meaningful delivery with words enunciated clearly, as they had been throughout the concert.

Jill Hopkins.