Search - Howard Goodall: Choir Works / Choirs Perform on DVD

A Joy to Behold

K. Niemla | Louisiana | 03/04/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This program is actually 10 years old, but it doesn't look dated at all. In it, composer Howard Goodall travels the world to observe choral traditions in Africa, America, Estonia, and at home in England. Each one of the choirs makes fantastically beautiful music, and the DVD includes uninterrupted performances from all of them.

Howard Goodall never disappoints as a presenter. Not ever. Placing him in front of a camera works so well that it's astonishing that he didn't begin doing these things until the mid-1990s. The fact that he writes all (most?) of the words that he says makes him seem all the more brilliant.

It is entirely appropriate that this documentary series be presented as a personal journey, as the emotional content of the music necessitates something more than film and a factual voice-over (and there is some of that for support, also). Goodall's relations with the singers as they tell him about why they sing and what it means are politely curious and enthusiastic. Sometimes he can get "naff" or cheesy, but even watching that happen is supremely pleasurable because his bravery is so inspiring.

I await eagerly the release of more of his television work."