A Sparkling Evening of Music

at St Mary’s 2025 Annual Concert

Our 10th Annual Concert at St Mary’s Church, Wargrave, took place on Saturday 15th November – and what a joyful and memorable evening it was! With a vibrant mix of returning favourites and exciting new talent, the church was once again filled with music, warmth, and a wonderfully enthusiastic audience.

Trumpeter Paul Speed opened both halves of the concert with flair and flourish, from the regal Trumpet Voluntary by Stanley to the dazzling modern showpiece Flowerdale by Philip Sparke. His performances brought brightness and energy to the evening.

Royal College of Music star Elif Cansever, joined by brilliant young pianist Misha Kaploukhii, brought grace and virtuosity to Brahms’ Violin Sonata and a show-stopping encore of Paganini’s La Campanella. Misha also delighted us with Strauss’s witty Turandot’s Frauengemach – recognisable to many!

Newcomer Kate Chislett – flautist and wife of our new Vicar, the Revd David Chislett – delighted the audience with a beautifully performed Bach Menuet et Badinerie, full of elegance and joyful sparkle. We were thrilled to welcome her to the concert line-up for the first time!

Kirsty Taylor-Stokes, whose voice captivated our audience last year, returned to sing two operatic gems: Handel’s Lascia Ch’io Pianga and Puccini’s Vissi D’arte. Both were delivered with stunning expression and power – a true highlight of the evening.

The Wargrave Community Choir, directed by David Knight and managed by Kirsty Andrew, fresh from singing at the Royal Albert Hall, lifted spirits with a moving Seal Lullaby, a joyful ABBA medley, and Take Me Home, Country Roads – which had many humming along.

We also enjoyed some exquisite chamber music from Wargrave locals Laura Anstee (’cello) and Liz Drew (clarinet) together with Misha (piano) in a lovely arrangement of Frank Bridge’s Romance.

Rosie and Katie Dart charmed the audience with two numbers from Wicked, while Charlie Dart gave a moving rendition of Trade Winds – full of longing and lyrical beauty. Juliette Artigala impressed with the soulful Alfie, and the Robert Piggott CofE Junior School Choir, directed by Stephanie Daisley, filled the church with energy and heart as they sang When You Believe and This is Me. Their passion and confidence lit up the evening.

We were thrilled to welcome back APOLLO•5, who dazzled, as always, with their trademark blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth. Their programme ranged from serene sacred music to jazzy, nostalgic favourites like These Foolish Things and The Way You Look Tonight – a true treat.

Huge thanks to everyone who helped make the evening such a success – to Andy Ferguson and his office for box office and programmes, to Helen Perry and the cooks who served supper to the musicians, and to Bob and Jane and those who poured the wine for the audience (with special thanks to Richard Bampfield MW for sourcing some excellent bottles from Lidl!). Most of all, thank you to our wonderful audience for your presence, warmth, and generous applause.

It was a night to remember.

We look forward to welcoming you all again next year.

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday 14th November 2026