REVIEWS & COMMENTS

October '07 Concert

"...this worthy aim is backed up by fine musicianship under the inspiring baton of Michael Alexander Young and their autumn concert saw a programme of Austro-German pieces superbly played by these predominantly youthful musicians... While appearing quite contained on the podium, Young led an impassioned performance that sent shivers down the spine... The orchestra's articulation of the various episodes from Beethoven's pastoral adventure was crystal clear and with some lovely work from the woodwinds in particular, this fresh approach to a well-worn symphony was a joy to hear."
taken from review of October 07 concert @ MusicalOMH.com
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June '07 Concert

"Conductor Michael Alexander Young and his players caught the mood of Debussy’s impressionist masterpiece to perfection...An uplifting evening, for performers and audience alike."
taken from review of June 07 concert @ MusicalCriticism.com
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“Seldom do you find such combination of youth, musical ability and purity of meaning behind an occasion…this has been a perfect start to our London vacation”.
Marianne and Peter Jensen    (Tourists from Copenhagen)
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“I went to the concert on 2nd June and thought it was one of the best I have ever been to. We were most impressed by the clarity and passion of the orchestra and by the acoustics of the venue which led to being able to hear details which we had missed when listening to recordings or other live orchestral music.

We live nearly 100 miles from London, and were so impressed that we shall make sure to attend future concerts whenever we can.

It was a wonderful evening. Thank you to all concerned.”

Nicola Poole
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“It's some time since we enjoyed a concert so much!  An interesting, varied programme, wonderfully performed”.
Josephine and Roger Rose
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“Tonight (the concert) was the most magical performance of the Debussy we have ever heard live.”
Dr. Patrick and June Schofield – Bowles (Retired music teacher)
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“I wish Charities Philharmonia held more concerts, I have never heard a concert organised for charitable causes of this standard before...truly captivating – will definitely come again”.
(No name given)


March '07 Concert

"Though the players in the Charities Philharmonia are only in their twenties, their performance of the great Symphony No. 7 (also known as "Leningrad") by Shostakovich was a triumph by any standard..." [4/5]
taken from review of March 07 concert @ MusicOMH.com

Dear CP,

“I didn't have a pen on me last night at St John's Smith Square so I couldn't fill in your questionnaire but I really wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the concert. I have seldom seen/heard a concert given with such verve, excitement and accomplishment. The musicians played for all they were worth with such skill, sensitivity and feeling it really made the whole evening (and in particular the Leningrad) a unique and moving experience. I've had the Leningrad on CD for some years but have never heard it played live before. Hearing it 'for real' simply blew me away - a pity the CP haven't made a recording yet! Please do add me to your database, I will certainly be supporting your orchestra in the future, and once more thank you for a simply wonderful evening - please pass on my words to the musicians if you think fit. By the way, I found out about you from The Independent magazine listings only a few hours before the concert!

All the very best for the future”

Tony Gardner
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“This evening has been more than just a splendid and highly accomplished concert – it has been a truly uplifting experience.”
Lilianne De Brienne
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“The Music Director showed deep musical insight and elicited an inspired performance”.
K. Vanter


November '06 Concert


"What a brilliant concept – I don’t usually attend classical concerts, I’m always too busy working in the office until late... But the thought of sponsoring charity in this way this has opened my eyes and I’ll definitely attend more Charities Philharmonia concerts. The music was electrifying and the cause was grounding."
F. Djonogly
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"It is very moving to see such talented young professionals put themselves forward in this way, giving their heart and soul for both the cause and the music – I must say I was overwhelmed by the sheer commitment and passion on display last night."
Amy Blake-Williams
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