The opening Mozart Symphony No 38, Prague, introduced us to the Halle's youngest ever assistant conductor, twenty one year old Jamie Phillips.
For a young musician, still learning his trade, he gave us a first class account of this well-known work, which shows Mozart's fondness for the key of D Major. The contrast between the tranquillity and poise of the Andante, and the surging urgency of the Presto finale was especially satisfying, in a thoroughly enjoyable well organised performance.
Alina Ibragimova is one of the most gifted of a plethora of young women violinist currently playing. She has a steely intensity and formidable technical prowess, as I heard when she played Bach quite beautifully in the Bachfest last year.
Yet I found the Mendelssohn disappointing: the serenity of the second movement Andante was hurried, losing its sense of peace.
And the final Allegro was transformed from a molto vivace to presto furioso.
It was too fast for me – and a number of other listeners: it failed to keep its shape, as it hurtled to a frenetic conclusion. She has become a lot more mobile on stage too.
But a rare talent nonetheless. I wonder what Sir Mark made of it, as he watched with a tolerant smile, as she took her bow?
In the second half, Elgar's Enigma Variations were sheer delight. What a difference it makes to hear them all together: It gives the work a sense of unity and coherence which Sir Mark's introduction helped us to understand.
And the Nimrod theme was a revelation, providing a new insight into this very familiar and much-loved melody. Superb playing from this splendid band, whose reputation continues to grow under Elder's superlative musicianship.
Yet another packed house will look forward to hearing them in Bath again.
Peter Lloyd Williams
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