Magnard Ensemble

Can you play a wind instrument while smiling? Well, this talented quintet certainly can and their joy is infectious. From their spirited start in Ligeti’s ‘Six Bagatelles’ to their exuberant finale, Paul Patterson’s ‘Westerly Winds’, the mix of tight ensemble and solo virtuosity was musical delight. With Bach, Mozart and Hindemith also in this exciting and well-balanced programme, there was something for everybody. The players’ enthusiastic introductions added greatly to the whole performance yet were easy for the youngsters in the audience to follow. They’ll be attracting many more large crowds if they carry on making beautiful music such fun.

St Nicholas’ Church, 14 May 2018
Rating:
Andrew Connal