ONCE again the people of Malvern have had the pleasure of welcoming this superb ensemble of Russian male singers, together with several fine soloists.

Unaccompanied ecclesiastical music comprised the first part of the concert; most pieces were written by living composers, but were nevertheless very much in typically sombre Soviet style. Mostly the tempi were carefully considered and tightly controlled; tuning was impeccable always.

In Apostles from all corners of the Earth, Valentina Ivanenko, the beautiful soprano soloist, sang above the choir, which featured close harmony and much chromaticism, with a melodic line which showed very strong Islamic influence.

She was heard again in a radiant delivery of Virgin Mother of God, Rejoice, the choir giving an extensive harmonic accompaniment.

The Lord's Prayer, with Vassily Savenko, bass soloist, was an intense rendering; the choir sang the wonderful harmonic progressions and innovative modulations most expressively, and gave a mighty final crescendo.

The male soprano soloist Igor Ishchak, with such a memorable voice, joined the other soloists and choir in a thrilling performance of Glory be to You, O Lord, where all the musicians finished in full voice.

Ukranian Folk Songs followed - the choir now in national dress and much more relaxed.

The ensemble led us through a pot-pourri of their national music, characterised by customary low bass drones and Cossack rhythms.

Using traditional Russian instruments to accompany the last few items, the singers produced a more flexible style in dance-like mood, singing with obvious enjoyment in a carefree way.

Brothers Yuri and Volodymyr Kuratch had shared the conducting.

The audience showed their considerable appreciation with a standing ovation.

JILL HOPKINS