I live in Edinburgh and choose to go to this throughout the year because it is so good week after week. In reviewing church services I should make it clear that I am not commenting on the spiritual experience (that is for the individual worshipper) but on the music and other performance elements of the event. The pre-service organ music from John Kitchen built well into the procession of the choir and priest. The Psalms flowed in traditional Anglican chant. The Canticles were set to Purcell’s Service in G Minor: this was performed well, with the Gloria et Patri being the highlight. The Amen at the close of the prayers was equally sumptuous.
This service was held on the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, so it was no surprise that the anthem was an Ave Maria. This one was by Mendelssohn. The anthem is a chance for the choir to show what it can do, even to show off, and a piece of adoration is perfect for this on a Feast Day. The excellent tenor solo set the tone for an Elysian feast of rich texture. The festival is a time for the choir to add extra touches and this service was no exception. It closed with the usual crisp and reflective Benediction. There are another two evensongs to attend at Old St Paul’s during the festival. They are a superb example of an underrated service and they are one of the best things that Edinburgh has to offer.