Pelléas Ensemble

This interesting combination of flute, viola and harp was always going to attract attention. However, I hadn’t expected the harp to be so central. Oliver Wass drove the show, setting the speeds and controlling the dynamics. However, he never dominated the other soloists, Henry Roberts (flute) and Luba Tunnicliffe (viola). All three melded into a true ensemble, accompanying or standing out as required.

Their French programme suited the hot afternoon, Dubois, Debussy and Richard Rodney Bennett inspired by Debussy, a bit dreamy and very stylish. The three Rameau movements were rather refreshing and everything was played with the greatest finesse.

St Nicholas’ Church, Hove, 26 May 2017

Rating: