London Philharmonic Orchestra, Andreas Branteild (cello), Jaime Martín (conductor)

Tchaikovsky’s Fantasy Overture from Romeo and Juliet was a bombastic opener, with the main theme still moving despite its overuse in films and TV shows. Presumably most of the sell-out crowd were there for Elgar’s Cello Concerto, which was as ethereal and stunning as always. Branteild was a commanding, confident soloist, exuding an intuitive understanding of timing and graceful execution which truly shone on the quieter, more sparse moments of the piece. Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade belonged to First Violin leader Pieter Schoeman, with beautifully quivering bowing, expertly heralding glorious melodic flourishes and the final harmony with Principal cellist Kristina Blaumane was dazzling.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome, 28 March 2015

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