Absolutely Heavenly: Classical Reflection & Anthony White live in Peterborough

In a world where so much online doesn’t live up to its promise, it’s a joy to witness live music that fully meets expectations. The sister duo, Classical Reflection, consisting of Hannah and Naomi, along with composer/pianist Anthony White, presented a concert featuring music from movies and musicals at Peterborough Cathedral on October 28th.

Classical Reflection are known for their beautiful and sweet voices, as well as their gorgeous yet subtle harmonies. This talent has propelled them to the top of the charts and allowed them to perform at some of the world’s most prestigious venues. The duo initially connected with composer/pianist Anthony White, known for works like “The Druid” and “Nelson the Giant,” through Instagram, and they have since collaborated on numerous projects.

The concert last Saturday was very much a family affair, with the twins’ parents assisting with program distribution. Even their beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Wally, was in attendance, occasionally filling the cathedral with enthusiastic howls. Hannah and Naomi are clearly purpose-driven and generous young women, as evidenced by their appeal for Guide Dogs and their showcase of their highly talented group of students.

Concertgoers were serenaded by the music of Jayen Navamani while being seated. I had the privilege of going backstage for a quick hello from the duo as well as Anthony. Their genuine smiles and personalities shone through, with no pretentiousness or airs, just sincere excitement to put on a show for fans.

Their first piece was “Think of Me” from “Phantom of the Opera,” and their ethereal voices were a perfect match for the cathedral. Anthony, at the piano, was sensitive and skillfully followed the twins as a true partner throughout. He amazed the audience with a live improvisation based on four notes, showcasing his exceptional talent.

Another highlight was “This Land” from “The Lion King,” for which the ladies had written their own lyrics, and it was stunning. Followers may have already heard their rendition of “May it Be” from “Lord of the Rings,” and it was just as beautiful in person. Hannah and Naomi invited their students on stage for a medley of West End hits, demonstrating their clear investment and active participation in choreography offstage. “You’ve Got A Friend in Me” and “Part of Your World” brought out a playful spirit, while opera favorites like “O Mio Babbino Caro” and “Nessun Dorma” were simply heavenly.

The voices of Hannah and Naomi are so perfectly matched that it often felt like there was only one singer. If there was ever a moment when they lost sync, the girls immediately looked at each other and effortlessly regained their stride. They are undeniably a perfect pairing, and Anthony possesses the intuition and talent to support and elevate them. I can only hope they will continue to create more music together. It was definitely worth traveling from around the world to hear them in concert, and I encourage anyone in the UK to make an effort to see them and experience the magic for themselves.

Backstage with Anthony White and Classical Reflection

Photograph by Natasha Barbieri, Editor of Classical Crossover Magazine

Photograph by Natasha Barbieri, Editor of Classical Crossover Magazine

Photograph by Natasha Barbieri, Editor of Classical Crossover Magazine

Photograph by Natasha Barbieri, Editor of Classical Crossover Magazine

Photograph by Natasha Barbieri, Editor of Classical Crossover Magazine

Photograph by Natasha Barbieri, Editor of Classical Crossover Magazine

Natasha Barbieri, Editor

Editor

Creator of Classical Crossover Magazine. For Natasha music has always been closely tied to her faith. At age 18, Natasha made her opera debut playing the part of the mother in Menotti’s ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors’ with the Eastern Festival Opera. At 20, she was a winner of the 2011 Young Artist Competition at Andrews University. Natasha graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor’s of Music. Natasha has released a series of Holiday singles “A Place Called Home” (2020), “One Little Boy,” and “The Perfect Year” (2021). In 2021, she was nominated for the ‘Future Classic Women Awards’ show on Men’s & Women’s Radio Station. Natasha is the creator and editor of ‘Classical Crossover Magazine’ a venture that has allowed her to interview many of the top stars in the genre including Sarah Brightman, Celtic Woman, Mirusia, Paul Potts, and more. During the covid-19 pandemic, she created an online concert series for the magazine that has seen her perform in the same line-up as Alex Sharpe, Lucy Kay, Barbara Padilla, Classical Reflection, and more on the virtual stage. In 2022, Natasha was included on the charity album “Stars of Classical Crossover: Christmas” in benefit of the Wallace & Gromit Children’s Charity.