Josephine Goddard (soprano): Bristol Cathedral

THIS very talented singer has just gained a scholarship to the Royal College of Music.

On the evidence of yesterday's recital, the third in the summer series 'Pictures and Poets', she should do very well in her studies. Charlotte Church at this age was described as "having the voice of an angel" but this young lady could be termed as "having the voice of an archangel".

Josephine chose folk songs from both Britain and Europe for her programme. Benjamin Britten was a particular exponent of this type of music and his first set contained music that was both skittish (Come You Not From Newcastle) and serious (There's None To Soothe).

The soloist showed immaculate control around the large building and projected her voice with great skill, although from my position halfway down the aisle it was sometimes difficult to hear the words. However I was assured by colleagues in the front row that her diction was perfect.

Joseph Canteloube was a French composer best known for his Chants D'Auvergne,a collection of traditional songs of that area. The most familiar is Bailero, which is supposedly a dialogue between two shepherds. Miss Goddard finished this group with a poignant rendition of the cradle song Brezairola.

In Britten's next group the famous Last Rose Of Summer was charmingly presented. This was an altogether slower selection which included some effortless top notes.

Two contrasting pieces by modern Spanish composer Fernandez Obrados brought this marvellous recital to an end.

The large audience applauded enthusiastically and were rewarded with O Waly, Waly as an encore.

9/10

JOHN PACKWOOD