The Mistress and I were delighted to receive an invitation
to join other members of the Livery at the magnificent Mercers’ Hall to enjoy
an evening of music followed by supper. Despite an already busy day (see
previous Blogs) this was an opportunity not to be missed so after changing back
into lounge suit we made our way to Ironmongers Lane.
Much has been written about the Mercers’ Hall and space does
not allow to add more here. Suffice to say it is one of the most splendid of
halls (now in its third incarnation) in the City as befits the Company, the
first of the Great Twelve. Joining some one hundred or so other Livery Masters,
Consorts and members for the Worshipful Company of Mercers we assembled in the Hallway
for reception drinks. It was very warm and noisy as guests took the opportunity
to catch up and discuss Livery matters.
It was then time to move into the Livery Hall where seats
were arranged around a small stage. We were welcomed by the Master Mercer,
Xenia Dennen who explained that the performance was to be in two parts; firstly,
a Haydn String Quartet Opus 20 no. 6 followed by a Schubert Quintet for String
Quartet and extra cello. Both were played by the Endellion String Quartet
(pictured), a world-renowned quintet, formed in 1979 and of which three
original members remain. Their precision, passion and sheer musicality of
playing was a complete joy and it was very humbling to hear this great music in
such surroundings. The audience were spell-bound.
After a short interlude the Quartet were joined by Guy Johnstone
(see picture) on the extra cello for the Schubert composition. Himself a widely
respected cellist (and former BBC Young Musician of the Year), his style of
playing suited this piece admirably and the whole effect was simply magical. We
couldn’t get enough of them!
But all things must end and supper awaited us in the Court
Dining Room. Arranged in tables of eight we were served a delicious two-course
supper by the in-house catering team. It was a very relaxed affair with no
speeches or toasts (I had done all this previously that day!) and one was made
to feel very welcome. The supper rounded off a very busy but enjoyable day and
the Mistress and I bade our farewells and headed for the train station.
Our thanks go to the Master Mercer and her team for putting
the evening together and to their caterers. But the biggest thanks must of
course go to the Endellion and special guest for their wonderful performance
that will be remembered for many years hence. Thank you.
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