Ruth Gibson (viola), Fiona Cross (clarinet) and Richard Casey (piano): Brahms Sonata No.1 in F minor Op. 120

Opting for a fascinating experiment, the Brighton Philharmonic principals performed the first two movements of the Brahms sonata with a viola and the final two with a clarinet. It succeeded brilliantly, the graceful fluidity of the viola contrasting with the more vibrant, sonorous clarinet, and the different instruments stirring a range of emotions in the listener. Packed with melodic vignettes and changes of pace, the performance was full of strikingly beautiful flourishes. All three musicians combined for the second piece, Mozart’s ‘Kegelstatt’ trio, which had a fuller sound and some moving moments but lacked the stark delicacy of the stunning Brahms.

The Royal Pavilion, 12 September 2013

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