Immense diversity of artistic understanding was embodied in this quartet's superlative concert.

The Czech blood of these musicians flowed through their interpretation of Smetana's Quartet No.1 in E minor 'From my Life''. Quality of sound and constant communication with one another produced outstanding ensemble playing and tonal balance. Spontaneity pervaded as the 'Allegro moderato alla polka' emanated vitality and a natural sense of rubato.

The cellist emerged in glorious melody for 'Largo sostenuto', a movement of great passion. Magically subdued episodes of fluttering strings helped to dramatise the closing 'Vivace'.

An entirely different approach was applied to Prokofiev's Quartet No.2 in F major, Op.92. Strong Cossack influence was audible in 'Allegro sosteuto', when tempi, rhythmic and chordal strength were maximised. Within the 'Adagio', the magnificently inspired melody was surrounded by stunning high-pitched ornamentation, while in the final 'Allegro', virtuosity abounded as sudden changes of tempi and style were effected.

Christopher Langdown joined the quartet for Frank Bridge's Piano Quintet. From the sombre string opening, he emerged in a flexible rolling sound, becoming evermore elegiac until muted strings prefaced a wonderful continuation of rhapsodic virtuosity from all the performers. 'Adagio ma non troppo' presented more beautiful melody played by very quiet strings, the first violinist soaring high before the cellist played in sublime melody. A rapturous 'Allegro energico' engaged the pianist in a passionate exhibition of expressive power. A supreme finale was accomplished.

Sympathetic reading of the second movement of Elgar's String Quintet was given as an encore.

Jill Hopkins