Mendelssohn never wastes a musical note and there were many notes for a large audience to savour in this performance of his oratorio Elijah, writes Derek Beck.

Combining the extensive choral resources of Winchester College with the rebranded former Music Club choir provided a rich vocal palette to underline the various moods of the biblical text.

Diction was fair, aided by the sympathetic support of the Philharmonic orchestra, and the largest ensembles achieved impressive rhythmic discipline.

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Tone was opulent, though perhaps somewhat reticent in the pagan Baal choruses.

If Part 2 began with a slightly less brilliant top line it was because at that point the chorus lacked the boy Quiristers who were preparing for a magical unaccompanied trio (Lift thine eyes) sung confidently from the back of the Cathedral.

Similar beauty and precision came from the Chapel and Chantry choirs in Part 1’s double quartet.

Setting a high standard for all the singing was a young solo quartet led by a truly magnificent Elijah.

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James Atkinson, along with mezzo Katie Bray, scarcely looked at a copy but instead offered fully dramatic and commanding contributions.

Soprano Jessica Cale and tenor Guy Cutting were equally outstanding in clarity and articulation, soaring over their instrumental accompaniments.

And assured beyond his years was solo College Quirister, Timothy Cheong, as the Youth in Part 1.

This whole occasion benefited from the mix of choral ages and experience, from the partly reduced but fully adequate orchestration and the leadership and coaching of College staff - all under the calm baton of Sarah Baldock.