Reviews from English and American publications, 2006-2010
Choral Reviews:
The opening Kyrie was beautifully sung, its middle section enhanced by a distinguished vocal quartet, Emma Harper (soprano), Heather Burns (alto), Andrew Dickinson (tenor) and James Birchall (bass). Both in ensemble and individually these four singers made an inspiring contribution, not least in the moving Benedictus. The Chorus had worked hard at the somewhat lengthy fugue, and sang with commendable technique and intense feeling in the Incarnatus - one of the most expressive sections of the mass. The orchestra were entirely supportive, not least the brass section with its fine trio of trombones - a rare luxury in choral society budgets.
The Cumberland News
Cockermouth Harmonic Society brought the Christmas story to life with Bach's Christmas Oratorio at All Saints Church on December 1st. From the confident opening bars it was clear this was going to be an exciting performance, with London-based organist Oliver Lallemant, joined by some fine trumpets and timpani from Glasgow, giving an admirable account of the orchestral accompaniment, and perfectly balancing the soloists. John Robinson conducted with confidence, and the choir responded enthusiastically
The News and Star
After a short interval Bernstein's Chichester Psalms was given an assured performance in the version for organ, harp and percussion. Sebastian Field joined the team of soloists and used his rich counter-tenor voice to great effect in the haunting setting of Psalm 23 which forms the second movement. John Robinson's clear direction ensured good ensemble between singers and instrumentalists in the faster sections, and he coaxed a lovely lyrical sound from the choir in the final movement. The choir's impeccable stage deportment throughout the concert was a joy to behold.
Whitehaven News
Cockermouth Harmonic Society's Spring Concert, consisting of twentieth century choral works from East Europe and America, represented imaginative programming and a formidable challenge. The choir's mastery of such demanding repertoire was obvious in the opening bars of Janacek's Otcenas, a strikingly unusual setting of the Lord's Prayer in six movements. Singing in the original Moravian the choir was on top form: the tone was clear and focussed, the phrasing expressive, and there was a wide range of colour and emotion.
The Cumberland News
Organ/Orchestral Reviews:
'Robinson must have an assured future in front of him. He has a robust technique and touch, and significant interpretative skill, not least in terms of some exquisite phrasing and articulation….Delicious!What subtle playing, but with cheeky forthrightness where appropriate.'
The Organ
'The wide-ranging programme…is presented with wide-eyed clarity and vigour; a sense of sheer enjoyment is often Delightful.'
Organists' Review
'One of the best recital discs to have come my way in a long time.'
CD Review, Radio 3
'The playing is uniformly excellent with energy and vigour displayed at all the right moments. A fine debut solo recording.'
The Organ
'The International Festival got off to a flying start with a performance of Schubert's great C Major Symphony that will long be remembered. John Robinson conducted as if he loved the work above all others, and the Northern Sinfonia Orchestra responded in generous measure to his well-judged tempi and convincing direction.'
The Cumberland News
'For calibre of interpretation, subtlety of orchestral blend, and the sheer electricity, and given the glaring talent of Robinson's almost nonchalant, even jazzily relaxed, conducting, this ensemble would have upstaged Rattle and his Berlin Philharmonic. '
The Church Times
'Mr. Robinson performs with an aplomb and artistry that belie his scant years. The vigor of his youthful exuberance is balanced by clarity, control, and imagination. He makes consummate use of the fine instrument.....Mr. Robinson's outstanding playing assures us that this glorious music will remain secure through another generation.'
The American Organist- organ music from Carlisle Cathedral
John Robinson performs with a fine sense of musicality that allows the music to speak for itself. He adds plenty of dash to the bravura passages; the considerable technical demands of which are met with aplomb....this excellent recording should inspire many to take up the cause.The American Organist- complete works of S.S.Wesley
Organist John Robinson treated the audience to a virtuosic performance of Bach's thrilling Prelude and Fugue in G, before enticing us into another world with Cesar Franck's Choral No 2, the choice of registrations making this magnificent instrument fairly glitter.
The Cumberland News
The Performances by John Robinson are full-blooded, using the considerable resources of the Carlisle organ (Willis, Harrison and Harrison). The freshness of interpretation and the variety of tonal resources reveal Wesley's ability and originality as a composer; the quality of the recording is excellent.
Organists' Review