THE debut performance of the Chandos Sinfonia was reviewed in the Malvern Gazette 25 years ago this week.

The reviewer, identified only as A W B, described the ensemble as "an orchestra of Mozartian-size composed mainly of local professional, talented amateur and student players, led by Bella Holt and conducted by Peter Stark, a young member of the Welsh Philharmonia.

"It was an occasion of sheer delight," wrote A W B, who said the programme, which included works by Dvorak, Mozart and Schubert, "called for deftness, precision and a light touch and the players gave us these qualities in full measure.

"This was a highly accomplished and elegant performance, for which much of the credit must go to the very professional and unmannered control of the conductor, who evidently knew clearly the sound he wished to produce and was able to draw it from the players in a relaxed and happy manner.

"Let us hope the Sinfonia continues to meet and gives concerts as attractive and accomplished as its first."