This performance of Handel’s Messiah, directed by Steven Devine, featured the Academy of Ancient Music and the magnificent AAM choir. Additionally, a group of around 200 singers from various choral groups in Gran Canaria joined in with the ensemble at numerous key moments in this well-loved seasonal work. This performance was among the most thrilling renditions of Handel’s Messiah that I have been part of, and it was a great pleasure to perform ‘The Trumpet Shall Sound’ with Cody Quattlebaum (bass). It was also wonderful to hear the other soloists: Anna Devin (soprano), Timothy Mead (alto), and Nicholas Pritchard (tenor), in addition to the stellar AAM choir.

I was particularly pleased with my performance given the short notice nature of ‘jumping in’ at the last minute. I had been awake for 23 hours straight. I received lots of compliments from my colleagues about my playing and a friend in the orchestra joked that I was ‘really good at sight reading’! He knew very well that I have played this piece probably more than any other, and that his comment would make me laugh!

This was a wonderful opportunity to visit Gran Canaria, and I hope to visit again some time with more time to explore this interesting island.