Rossini’s Thieving Magpie Overture sparked this satisfying programme into life, and then Debussy calmed us down into state of dreams à l’après-midi d’un faune. We were now in the mood for the beauty and passions of Barber’s ravishing Violin Concerto. Amanda Lake gave a spirited and sensuous performance. The other soloists were fine too, especially the oboe.

Vaughan-Williams’ 2nd Symphony brought out the best of this well-rehearsed orchestra. Christopher Braime’s restrained yet eloquent conducting presented all the moods and impressions of ‘A London Symphony’: sensuous, jolly, alarming and even more passionate. This delightful evening really deserved a much bigger audience.

St Mary’s, Rock Gardens, Brighton, 25 February 2012
Rating:
Andrew Connal

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