On March 1st 2008, an audience of about eighty enjoyed a recital by the popular guitarist, Richard Durrant, held in St Michael’s Church.

Shoreham-based Richard is the master of many stringed instruments but on this occasion most of the pieces were played on the acoustic guitar, making for a soothing evening of mellow music.

In the first part of the evening, Richard performed music by European composers; the most well known tune was probably Myers’ “Cavatina” (the theme from The Deerhunter), which we were told is always the most requested item. The first half closed with Richard’s own composition “The Walrus Tree.” During the interval there was the opportunity to buy Richard’s CDs, while enjoying a glass of wine and chatting with friends old and new.

The second half of the evening featured composers from South and Latin America. A contrast came with the piece “Electric Counterpart,” by the American writer Reich. As the name implies, this was played on the electric guitar, and accompanied by synchronised moving images projected onto a screen. The repetitive nature of the music and the constantly shifting light certainly had a mesmerising effect.

All agreed that the evening was hugely enjoyable, and it was good to have an event like this taking place within Partridge Green. Profits raised are being put towards the repair of the window in the tower of St Michael’s. Thanks go to Father William for arranging such a delightful occasion.

See the Upcoming Events for the 2009 concert date.